Be Merciful

The central message of today’s readings is mercy, love, and forgiveness—hallmarks of Christian life. Jesus calls us to love our enemies and be merciful, just as our Heavenly Father is merciful. In a world filled with conflict, division, and resentment, this call challenges us to rise above our human instincts and reflect God’s love in our relationships.

In today’s First Reading (1 Samuel 26), David has an opportunity to kill King Saul, who has been pursuing him to take his life. Instead of revenge, David chooses mercy, recognizing that Saul is the Lord’s anointed. This act of forgiveness highlights that true strength lies not in retaliation but in showing compassion. Like David, we are called to trust in God’s justice rather than seeking vengeance. Mercy elevates us above hatred and reflects the heart of God.

The radical teaching of Jesus in the Gospel (Luke 6:27-38), asking us to love our enemies and do good to those who mistreat  is not about weakness but about imitating God’s love. Jesus himself lived this message when, on the Cross, He forgave those who crucified Him. True Christian love extends even to those who do us harm. Mercy does not condone wrongdoing, but it liberates us from bitterness.

Today’s readings challenge us to move beyond the natural tendency for revenge and embrace the divine call to mercy. By loving our enemies and showing kindness even when it is undeserved, we reflect the image of Christ in the world. Let us pray for the grace to love as Jesus loved and to be merciful as our Father in Heaven is merciful. May God grant us hearts full of forgiveness, love, and peace. Amen.