One act of Mercy you can offer to others is to perceive the gifts of God in their lives and to rejoice in that fact. Sadly, there can often be a temptation to be jealous or envious of others, especially when you see their natural talents or the grace of God in their lives. But if you can look at them with humility, your heart will be moved to see God at work in them. You will see their natural gifts as gifts from God given at the creation of their souls, and you will see their supernatural gifts as gifts from God given by His grace. Seek to rejoice in the goodness of God alive in all His children and you will add to those gifts in their lives and also in yours (See Diary #1671).
What is your first reaction when you see either a natural talent or a supernatural grace in another? Are you jealous or envious? Or do you rejoice that you are blessed to see God at work? Reflect honestly upon this question this day and seek the latter so that the Lord will bring forth even more blessings in your life and theirs.
Lord, I thank You for the way You are at work in all of Your children. As I see Your hand and boundless gifts, give me the grace of a joyful heart so that I may rejoice in the good things You offer to all. Jesus, I trust in You.
Saint Andrew Christmas Novena
The Saint Andrew’s Christmas Novena prayer below is traditionally prayed 15 times a day from November 30, the Feast of Saint Andrew, through Christmas Eve.
Featured image above: St. Peter Preaching in Jerusalem by Charles Poërson, via Wikimedia Commons
A great Christmas gift!
Daily Reflections on Divine Mercy:
365 Days with Saint Faustina
