Mercy
Monks and other monastics have relied on The Rule of Saint Benedict as their basic rule of life since the sixth century. A rather short and, in some places, dated document, The Rule is still a profound statement of the monastic life. Saint Benedict pointed out that mercy, forgiveness, and compassion lie at the heart of Christian life.
Benedict knew that conflict among those who live together is inevitable. So in one part of The Rule he instructs that both the community's morning and evening prayer include a recitation of the Lord's Prayer. His purpose: twice each day the community would say right out loud: "forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us."
While most of us do not live in a monastery or convent, we can still benefit from Benedict's wisdom. Whether we live with loved ones, or with roommates, or with a beloved pet, or in solitude, because we are human, conflict and strife are a part of our lives. We fail others, and others fail us. It cannot be avoided.
Oh, I suppose we could avoid all conflict, but we would then have to give up all intimacy as well. That does not appeal to me.
We do know this much: God alone is faultless. God alone has endless patience for our failings, and overflowing compassion and mercy for each one of us. This is just what Sarah Hart sings in her song You Alone.
You alone are holy,
you alone are Lord.
You alone are worthy
to be honored and adored.
Mercy you have given,
kindness you have shown.
Love is you alone.
Saint Benedict and his followers took the Christian life seriously. You and I may not be called to religious community life, so much of The Rule may not apply. Yet we too must be sincere about our faith journey. And in that sincerity we can recognize that God offers infinite patience, compassion, and love no matter our shortcoming and failings. We could never earn such mercy. It is pure gift. We can also recognize the value of forgiving others their failings and making every attempt to show similar mercy and compassion.
As you pray the Lord's Prayer below, bring to mind those whom you have failed and those who have failed you. Focus on the words in CAPS.
Our Father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and FORGIVE US OUR TRESPASSES,
AS WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO TRESPASS AGAINST US,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Related Links:
- "What is Mercy? 14 Ways to Show You Know" by Jim Auer
- "John Paul II and the Feast of Divine Mercy" By Lisa A. Bastian
Spirit Compass reflections are developed in partnership
with the Center for Ministry Development.