Mercy in the Modern World
Living Words from Pope John Paul II
17 The Lord your God is with you;
his power gives you victory.
The Lord will take delight in you,
and in his love he will give you new life.[a]
He will sing and be joyful over you,
Saint Peter’s Basilica, The Vatican – 30 November 1980 | In modern society, there’s a rising resistance to the idea of a merciful God. Mercy is becoming less present in everyday life and in people’s hearts. The unease with the word “mercy” is clear, especially as humanity, empowered by scientific and technological progress, has gained control over the earth and dominates it. 14
This dominance over the earth is often expressed in a limited, superficial way, leaving little room for mercy. We live in a world full of contrasts: powerful yet vulnerable, capable of both noble and base actions, open to freedom and slavery, progress and decline, brotherhood and hatred. Humanity is increasingly aware that the forces it has unleashed are within its control, and it must either master them or be enslaved by them.
The Challenges and Hopes of Our Age
The current global situation shows both hopeful changes for a better future and numerous threats that surpass those of the past. Although the Church often emphasizes these dangers in forums like the UN, UNESCO, and FAO, it also needs to analyze them from the perspective of divine truth.
God as the “Father of Mercies”
The truth revealed in Christ about God—the “Father of mercies”—provides a perspective that highlights His closeness to humanity, especially in times of suffering or when human dignity is at risk. 16
Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Dives in Misericordia
Blessing
Pope John Paul II
Read the original Vatican text