Robert Leinweber, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Often, when we speak of the Mercy of God, we speak of the forgiveness of sins. This is the first act of God’s Mercy. He sees every sin, even the slightest imperfection, and despite the suffering these sins impose upon Our Lord, He lavishly bestows Mercy to forgive. Forgiveness becomes total and permanent. God never brings up sins that have been forgiven. But God doesn’t stop there. It’s important to understand that God bestows many graces in addition to forgiveness. One such grace is that, when He forgives a particular sin, He actually transforms it in such a way that He is able to use it for our good. Amazingly, God is even able to use sin for His glory in the end (See Diary #1745).
Reflect upon two things. First, look at the forgiveness that God has offered you for past sins. This should leave you with humble gratitude. Second, look for ways that God has used even your past sins, once forgiven, for His glory. The Lord’s Mercy is overwhelming and awe-inspiring. Allow it to leave you in eternal gratitude.
Lord, I thank You for the forgiveness that You offer me and even more for the infinite grace that You bestow after You forgive. I pray that I will always be aware of these graces and will open my heart to them without hesitation. I love you, dear Lord, and I am eternally grateful to You for all things. Jesus, I trust in You.
Saint Andrew Christmas Novena
Traditionally prayed 15 times a day from November 30 through Christmas Eve.