The Lord is kind and merciful

It seems that kindness and mercy go hand in hand. One is never without the other. Kindness and mercy are two aspects of God which encourage us to continue to have hope in God and at the same time to believe in ourselves. Can we imagine what our lives would be like if God is not kind and merciful?

As we celebrate the Lunar New Year this very day, we stop for a moment and take comfort and pleasure in the knowledge that God has blessed each one of us so much throughout the previous year. It seems that God's kindness and mercy are like the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers which their water continues to run endlessly to satisfy both the rich and the poor, the saints and sinners alike. As we recognize and receive God's kindness and mercy, He also demands of us to be kind and mercy to others, "Do to others as you would have them do to you". Luke 6: 31.

Reflecting upon our personal life and relationship with others, we sometimes question if what God is asking from us is realistic and feasible. In today's first reading, David could have rationalized that God had indeed given the life of King Saul into his hands; "God has delivered your enemy into your grasp,…because the Lord had put them into a deep slumber." 1 Sam. 26:8,12. Just one thrust of the spear to end King Saul's life, David could have ended all of his fear and trouble. Instead David put his trust in God's providence. David had shown mercy to his enemy, therefore, God had shown His mercy upon him and his descendants.

While we are rejoicing and having confidence in God's kindness and mercy, may we not forget that we are also obligated to do likewise to our brothers and sisters.                                                                                            

                                                                                           Rev. Nick Hien Nguyen, SVD

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