Lord, Have Mercy.

"Divine Mercy is the center of the Gospel message, manifested through the Sacraments and works of mercy done by the Church. It is the only source of true peace for every human heart and every human community."

What image do you think comes to mind when most Catholics think of Divine Mercy, and who do they associate with the spread of the message of Divine Mercy? The image here and St. Faustina are the most likely answers, and they would have been mine too until recently. Reading Robert Stackpole’s "Divine Mercy: A Guide from Genesis to Benedict XVI" has greatly expanded my understanding and appreciation of the marvelous thing that is our Lord’s Divine Mercy. Now I also think of the shepherd and the lost lamb, the prodigal son’s return, St. Luke the Evangelist, St. Augustine, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Francis of Assisi, Pope John Paul II, and many others.

The book is organized into three parts which build a beautiful image of what Divine Mercy truly is and what a glorious gift it is. The first part includes the characteristics of God’s Divine Mercy and helps the reader to understand how much God loves us. Stackpole talks about two Hebrew words used in the Old Testament to describe God’s mercy: hesed, a love that is steadfast and always giving; and rachamim, a tender and compassionate love. Examples of Divine Mercy from the Old and New Testament, from Genesis through Revelations, are examined, establishing a secure foundation for belief in Divine Mercy. In part two Stackpole examines the writings of several saints, developing their viewpoints of Divine Mercy. This section is very deep and meaty; these men and women contributed greatly to the understanding of Divine Mercy. The final part places the understanding of Divine Mercy in a modern context, showing it continues to be revealed. It also emphasizes the world’s great need to hear about, understand and trust in God’s mercy.

Each year when Divine Mercy Sunday come around I am always reminded that I want to read St. Faustina’s Diary. I have been intimidated by its length and put it off until later. With this background reading, I feel that I already have a much better grasp on her revelations and writings, especially with the broader context of Divine Mercy. I would still like to read it… someday.

This review was written as part of the Catholic book Reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Divine Mercy: A Guide from Genesis to Benedict XVI.

P.S. Today is the day to begin the Divine Mercy novena.