Why another devotion? Why Divine Mercy?
The practice of the devotion to Divine Mercy will help you get to Heaven. The practice of any true devotion will help you live a more Christian life. But, Divine Mercy is something more, this devotion is of particular importance.
Unlike other devotions, the devotion to Divine Mercy is not just a devotion to a saint, like St. Therese of Lisieux or St. Michael (as awesome as they are). Divine Mercy is a devotion to God Himself. And, devotion to God is not optional.
This isn’t just about a devotion to God, though. Look at the image of Divine Mercy, see Divine Mercy is a devotion of God toward you. See how the image shows Jesus’ left foot stepping forward as He approaches from the darkness? His hand is raised in blessing and invitation that you come to Him. His heart is opened, the red and white rays (blood and water) rush forth to wash and lift you. This shows the true devotion of the Creator to His created – you.
This devotion to Divine Mercy is life-changing. Actually, it is eternal life-changing. When we practice this devotion, we learn to turn to God for forgiveness, over and over. We learn to trust His Mercy even in our biggest crimes against Him and His Church.
“If you forgive others for the wrongs they have done, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.” Matthew 6:14-15
We learn in asking for this Divine Mercy, how to give mercy to others (deed, word, prayer). We learn to rejoice in sharing mercy with others. There is great joy in trying to out give God (haha – trying).
““I am giving you three ways of exercising mercy toward your neighbor: the first — by deed, the second — by word, the third — by prayer. In these three degrees is contained the fullness of mercy, and it is an unquestionable proof of love for Me” Divine Mercy in My Soul # 742
“…have mercy on us, and on the whole world…” Divine Mercy in My Soul # 476
Trusting God – “Jesus, I trust in You” – helps us learn humility and lifts us to holiness and sanctity. Trust in the Divine Will of God means putting aside our plans, desires and even applause. Trusting in God, fully and totally, even our suffering becomes meaningful (Divine Mercy in My Soul # 190).
The devotion of Divine Mercy is very Eucharistic and focused upon the greatest prayer we offer as a Church – the Mass.
Eternal Father,
I offer you the Body and Blood,
Soul and Divinity
of Your Dearly Beloved Son,
Our Lord, Jesus Christ,
in atonement for our sins
and those of the whole world. Divine Mercy in My Soul # 475
