The Apostolate of Mercy and Acceptance

Some people are deeply troubled in life and cannot seem to sort out their difficulties.  They are “needy” in the sense that they are constantly seeking something to offer them consolation.  They may believe that riches or other forms of earthly consolations are what they want but what they do not realize is that the Lord is the answer to all their needs. 

These wandering souls must become the focus of our mercy.  One way we offer the Mercy of God to them is through our gentle presence, offering an accepting heart and listening ear.  When those with heavy burdens in life discover that we care for them and wish to listen to them, they will often seize the opportunity to open up their hearts to us, revealing their wounds and troubles.  

It is not so much our responsibility to do the healing or to solve their problems.  Our responsibility is most often to simply let them know we care and understand.  This act of love and acceptance is an act of extraordinary Mercy flowing from the Heart of Jesus through us (See Diary #1282).

When you encounter others who are troubled and heavily burdened in life, how do you treat them?  Do you treat them with judgment and disgust?  Or do you listen to them, seek to understand them, and offer an accepting and compassionate heart?  Reflect upon this question and think about those whom God has placed in your life who need to know God’s love and acceptance through you.  Do not neglect this act for you are called to be an apostle of the Mercy of God.

Lord, I offer myself to You as an apostle of Your merciful Heart.  Give me a true compassion and acceptance for those souls in most need of Your Divine Mercy.  Help me to listen to them, seek to understand them and be there for them as a representative of Your Sacred Heart.  I give myself to You, dear Lord.  Use me as You will.  Jesus, I trust in You.

                         John Oyadougha