Therefore tell the people: This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Return to me,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty. Zechariah 1:3
“Return, return, and wait not for the rod of justice, since we cannot escape the hands of God! We are in His hands either by justice or by mercy; better it is for us to recognize our faults and to abide in the hands of mercy, than to remain in fault and in the hands of justice. For our faults do not pass unpunished, especially those that are wrought against Holy Church. But I wish to bind myself to bear you before God with tears and continual prayer, and to bear with you your penitence, provided that you choose to return to your father, who like a true father awaits you with the open wings of mercy.”
Catherine of Siena (1347-1380) a.k.a Catherine Benincasa in her letter To Three Italian Cardinals addressing corruption in the church.
Yesterday, God reminded me of the word ‘remember’ for the people of Guatemala. Today my mind goes to the word ‘return’ and my attention went to this famous letter written by Catherine of Siena in a time of corruption in the church.
Sometimes generosity takes shape as communicating the reality that we are in God’s hands either by justice or mercy. And we get to be patient with people even as God has been patient with us.
When we recognize our faults and return, in the words of the prophet Zechariah, the Lord Almighty returns to us and we find mercy. We discover the open arms of the Father. When we don’t. Well, let’s just say it won’t pass unpunished.
So what’s our role as God’s servants? It’s to speak and also to bear people before God with prayers and tears. Lord Almighty, have mercy on me a sinner. Have mercy on Guatemala. Move by your Spirit so people return to You. Amen.
Pray this prayer where you are with gratitude in your heart for His matchless mercy. Shed a tear for those that come to mind who need to return to God. And rest knowing the Father hears your prayers and can work in unthinkable ways for His glory.