Remember… The Name of God is Mercy

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJ

Recognize Jesus in your life 
Reflection Date: April 3, 2025 Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Daily Readings: Exodus 32: 7-14; John 5: 31- 47

The first reading offers a profound insight into the themes of sin, God’s mercy, and the power of intercessory prayer. It calls us to trust in God’s promises, reject false idols, and follow leadership with commitment.

In the Gospel, Jesus makes it clear to the Jewish leaders who question His authority by citing the justice-filled works of John the Baptist, His own works of mercy and compassion, and His relationship with the Father.

The Israelites, despite experiencing the presence of the God of liberation through many miracles during their long journey of deliverance from Egypt, turn to idolatry by creating a golden calf and worshipping it. How easily they forget the faithfulness of God, who brought them out from the land of slavery! God cannot tolerate this and wants to wipe away the multitude from the face of the earth, but Moses comes to their rescue through powerful intercessory prayer.

This invites us to turn to prayer even when everything looks dark. No matter how far we go astray, God comes to our rescue when we return to Him with a contrite heart. Remember, the name of God is Mercy (Pope Francis).

Jesus, in today’s Gospel, confirms that His mission on earth is from the Father and affirms His relationship with Him with conviction. Perceiving the hard-heartedness of the Jews, who prefer human glory to divine truth, He tries to explain to them how to recognize God’s ways. And what about us—do we seek God and His kingdom? Or are we caught up in religious practices, ignoring the presence of Christ within us?

Call to Action for Catholic Living:                                                                                     

• Let mercy become flesh in your life.                                                                              
• Have strong recourse to intercessory prayer and deepen your knowledge of the Scriptures with a heart open to transformation.                                                                          
• Recognize Jesus in your daily activities; respond positively in the service of the poor.