My mom and I have been reading a book based on the writings of St. Therese of Lisieux. Today my mom read a particular paragraph to my dad and me. It talked about how in Therese’s childhood, she was very emotional and anxious. Her faith was based on God’s Justice. She worked hard to build up her merits, sufferings, and sacrifices – even before her first Communion as a child. As she grew older and closer to Christ, she came to realize that there is another side to God – His Merciful Love. We talked about how my parents grew up with the stereotypical nuns for teachers. My mom and dad also learned about God’s Justice and how a person must behave to be in His good graces. Unfortunately, they did not hear much about God’s Merciful Love. I reflected on this and thought how difficult it is to remain faithful with that kind of understanding. I do think that many people feel that God rejects them, is angry with them, or even hates them based upon their behavior. They fear God’s Justice. But the reality is that God also offers each one of us His Merciful Love. He is not waiting or expecting us to be perfect. None of us would ever have a relationship with Him if that were the case. But God wants us to go to Him, to be with Him, talk with Him, and yes – listen to Him as well. He has so much love to give us if we will accept Him. And the beauty of it is – we can do that right now.

I Found God today in the realization of His Merciful Love.