Jesus the Christ came to this world to unbind us from sin and restore us with his Divine Mercy. He offers unconditional forgiveness for those who seek it. He has never once used his Godly power to beat a soul into submission. He usually asks sinners if they are hungry and then listens to their plea.
Jesus offers unconditional forgiveness for those who seek it.
One quick glance around the world will reveal that most of us are a bit lacking in how we follow him. We are not always capable of knowing the inner workings of the heart, but it doesn’t seem to stop us from playing God. We’re much better at judging than understanding. “Offering the other cheek” is an honorable idea for someone else. Mercy is often the practice of last resort.
We are called to be Merciful because it is the nature of God, and we are made in his image.
How do we become better at this challenging Beatitude? By being honest with ourselves about our own brokenness. Are we vulnerable enough to see all the times we tried to control, conquer or displace our own broken hearts onto others. All the times we kept God at a distance? We rarely deserve Mercy, yet it is freely given, as demonstrated by Jesus. We are called to be Merciful because it is the nature of God, and we are made in his image. When we finally recognize our own need for Mercy, we are more compassionate to others. God’s merciful face shines back upon us. And He is smiling.
In this painting, Mercy rains down in red and blue (blood and water) from above. The figure extends an olive branch, the symbol of God’s Mercy. From the source, Mercy pours through our hands and out to all. Mercy is not something we hold for ourselves, but something we allow to flow outward.
This piece is part of my book, “Arise to Blessedness” from Ave Maria Press. Also available on Amazon and Etsy.
“Blessed Are The Merciful” • Original painting is 16×20″ and acrylic on wood panel. It is available at The Sacred Art Gallery in Mesa, AZ.
Prints and other gifts are available in my Fine Art America-Pixels shops.
