Divine Mercy

This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday which makes it a great day to reflect on the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  As we know, sin cuts us off from God’s sanctifying grace.  Although our sin may cut us off temporarily from sanctifying grace, it can always be regained through an honest and authentic reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. 

Often, I hear people say that they are not deserving of God’s love because of their sinfulness.  While none of us deserve God’s love, it is granted to all of us as a gift.  I often meet people who believe that their sin is “different” and “worse” than the sins of their neighbor and thus feel worthless, inferior, and despairing. 

While there are different levels of sin and some are worse than others, we cannot get trapped in the mindset that our sins cannot be forgiven or that we are somehow special or unique in our sinfulness.  If we do this, we are really doubting the amount of God’s love, which we know to be infinite and without limit. 

This is simply pride in a different form since we are implying that our sins are so grand and severe that even God cannot forgive us.  Sins of any kind are a drop in the ocean compared to God’s love, mercy, and grace.  If you believe you are a sinner, you are correct.  However, take heart in God’s love and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation whenever you feel as if you have sinned.  After you do, commit to trying harder, praying more, and move on.  If you do this regularly, I will wager that your mental health will improve!