Thanksgiving Novena of Mercy...Day 1

Day 1: Feed the Hungry and Give Drink to the Thirsty

"We cannot escape the Lord's words to us, and they will serve as the criteria upon which we will be judged." (Misericordiae Vultus 15)

The disciples approached Jesus and said, "...Dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves." Jesus said to them, "There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves." --Matthew 14:15-16

Loving Father, rich in Mercy, you give us your entire self, always, freely, asking nothing in return. Through mercy you reach out to the sinner, offering a new chance to reflect, convert, and believe. Your mercy opens our hearts to a hope of being loved forever despite our sinfulness. Free us to let go of anger, wrath, violence, and revenge-a necessary condition for living joyfully.

Help us to see the wounds of our brothers and sisters who are denied their dignity. May we refrain from judgment and envy toward others. Enable us to accept the good in every person. It is time to bear the weaknesses and struggles of our brothers and sisters. Let us help others escape the doubt that causes them to fall into despair. May the flesh of your Son-visible in the tortured, the scourged, the malnourished, and the exiled-be acknowledged, touched, and cared for by us.

With our eyes fixed on Jesus' merciful gaze, let us experience the love of the Most Holy Trinity. Through Christ our Lord. AMEN.

(Based on Misericordiae Vultus: http://www.ccjr.us/dialogika-resources/documents-and-statements/roman-catholic/francis/1330-francis-2015apr11)