One of our grandsons is preparing for First Communion and recently practiced for first reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. With just a little humor, I asked his parent if the young one had been “repentant” during the practice. I was told that it was “just practice.” I wonder what a seven-year-old understands by repentance and reconciliation. At seven, we all knew what it was to hurt, feel guilt, be alone, or wish we hadn’t done or said something. We understood the need for healing and to have friendship restored.
Every once in a while, when I was teaching, a student would come to me regretfully and admit a misjudgment that fell short of a school standard or policy. I would listen as compassionately as I could. It takes courage to admit we’ve done something wrong. I’d advise them to meet with the relevant teacher or administrator. With just a little humor, I’d suggest they “throw themselves on the adult’s mercy,” explain the issue, admit responsibility, express regret, and prepare to make amends.
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed…” (James 5:16)
The Freedom of Mercy
We are not perfect people. It’s good to remember this with our children. If they were perfect, they wouldn’t need us. Even with our imperfections, they need us to teach them the courage of forgiveness, the freedom of mercy, and the grace of healing.
Love Calls to Us
In Lent, we immerse ourselves in the story of the Father’s superabundant mercy as extended to us through Jesus. Lent opens us to God’s love beyond our imagination. We contemplate the One who loves us completely despite all our shortcomings. It is humbling, but the Father’s love for us is our motive for repentance, the desire to be better. Love is the source of forgiveness.
Listen, Simplify, Give
In Lent, we traditionally emphasize prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. I’ve been thinking about how to realize these practices. In prayer, I’m going to try to listen more. For fasting, I’m seeking ways to simplify my life. For almsgiving, I will try to give more generously to whoever needs me. My efforts won’t be perfect. I will trust in the Lord’s grace.
In our family prayer this Lent, let us pray in gratitude for the healing presence of God and how we make His mercy real for one another.