the attraction of mercy - december 21 2018

Why did Mary upon knowing that she was pregnant and Elizabeth her cousin was also pregnant, why did Mary went in haste to Elizabeth, in what was a difficult and dangerous journey?  Why ran to her?  Because Mary knew Elizabeth would understand.  Mary knew that her cousin Elizabeth would understand why a virgin, not yet married but only betrothed to Joseph, was pregnant.  Mary knew Elizabeth would not need a lot of explanation.  Mary knew Elizabeth would not be judgmental and make suspicious and malicious conclusions.  Mary knew she could find in Elizabeth comfort and consolation.  She knew she can find in Elizabeth mercy.  It is said that when love meets suffering, love becomes mercy.  And like a magnet Mary was attracted to it.

A church or a parish community which becomes judgmental become less attractive.  A church or a parish which refuses to embrace the outcast becomes less attractive.  A church or a parish community which puts down the mistake makers becomes less attractive to them.  Mercy always attracts.  Mercy draws unworthy people to the church’s embrace.  

We pray that in the remaining days before Christmas, we may learn how to become persons and a community to which sinners, mistake makers, and outcast can take refuge and find comfort.