Ten Ways To Live Out the Doctrine of Divine Mercy
The Second Sunday of Easter is Divine Mercy Sunday. Among the most important highlights in the Pontificate of Pope St. John Paul II was the end of April in the year 2000. This great modern saint accomplished two extraordinary feats on that same day. He carried out the first canonization of the new millennium, raising to the altar of Saint Faustina Kowalska (1905-1938)—known as the Secretary of Divine Mercy. Then the Holy Pontiff proclaimed the Second Sunday after Easter to be Divine Mercy Sunday. According to inner sources, this was the happiest day in the life of Saint Pope John Paul II. He felt that one of his primary missions entering into the new millennium was the indispensable need to promote the message of Divine Mercy. Now it was done.
Therefore, let us present a succinct summary of some of the most salient points of the Doctrine of Divine Mercy promoted by Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska and officially proclaimed by His Holiness, Saint Pope John Paul II.
1. Be Merciful As Your Heavenly Father Is Merciful
When somebody offends you, the natural reaction is to get even or to get revenge. But this is not the Heart of Jesus. As He hung on the cross, Jesus’ first word was that of mercy: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.” (Lk. 23:34)
Let us try to forgive immediately; this is most pleasing to the Heart of Jesus and a sure means to attain God’s mercy for us. The key to victory is to forgive right away. The Bible teaches us to not allow the sun to go down on our anger.
2. Honor and Venerate the Image of Divine Mercy
Jesus told Saint Faustina Kowalska that He wanted an image of Divine Mercy to be painted. Then He told the saint that He wanted this image to be venerated in the entire world. See if you can purchase an attractive image of Divine Mercy. Have it blessed by a priest and then enthroned in your home.
Make sure the image is enthroned in a prominent place. This is very pleasing to the Heart of Jesus. By doing so, you are saying implicitly to all who enter your home that Jesus is the King of your home, your family, and your heart.
