July 23 2023 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Although you are sovereign in strength, you judge with mildness,
and with great forbearance you govern us;
for you have power to act whenever you choose.

Through such works you have taught your people
that the righteous must be kind,
and you have filled your children with good hope,
because you give repentance for sins.

From Wisdom 12:13,16-19

In the eyes of the world, it may seem as weakness to show mercy and forgiveness to those who have wronged us. However, in this reading from Wisdom, we are asked to see that God’s repeated mercy and offer of the chance for repentance as an indication of God’s strength. The writer makes it clear that those who read these words must also be ready to pardon others and to show the same kindness that God shows to us.

• When have you experienced the power of God’s mercy and forgiveness?
• Why does it matter whether we show mercy and forgiveness to others?

Give thanks for God’s kindness towards you and pray for the grace to show kindness and mercy to those who need this from you.