Accepting mercy
From today’s Scripture: “Are you envious because I am generous?”—Mt 20:15
This parable of the one who works one hour to receive the same as one who worked all day is hard to reconcile with our human idea of justice. Yet, this is not a story about justice, but of mercy.
I remember once in high school, our choir was coming home from a concert in a winter storm and a man hit our bus and many were injured. It was very traumatic and many classmates and our teacher were hospitalized with very serious injuries. Our English teacher told those of us who were on the bus but attended school the next day, not to do any homework. Just relax, it will be okay.
The other classmates were very angry. Yet, her mercy and understanding of our pain and worry was never forgotten. Sometimes when someone is merciful it is hard to accept because it “does not seem fair.” Yet, I am thankful God’s mercy is greater than his justice. If it were not, could any of us be saved?
Let us pray: Lord, help me be generous in all things including my offering mercy. May I celebrate when another is granted mercy, even if I am not.
Today’s author is Father Steve Pawelk, Second Vice President of Glenmary and Director of Glenmary’s novitiate program.