Mercy

Words exchanged between them
Could not be retrieved,
Forgiveness freely offered;
Mercy is received.

Sorrow overwhelming,
Grief that can’t be borne.
Presence of companions—
Mercy carries on.

Tragedy unfolding;
Chaos everywhere.
Caring souls endeavor;
Mercy is their prayer.

Sadness like a coffin,
No strength to face each day—
Angels whisper “courage.”
Mercy leads the way.

Shame and guilt imprison,
Thorough in defeat,
But the soul finds freedom
At the mercy seat.

Righteous in our judgments,
Demanding others pay;
God shines His sun on everyone—
Mercy is His way.

While we were yet in darkness
Stumbling through the night,
Compassion was God’s answer,
Embracing us with Light.

Heart of God so open,
Eternal second chance:
Life, a song of mystery—
Mercy is the dance.

By Linda Abner

(Linda Abner is a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Indianapolis.)

The Criterion