Pope says God is ‘pure mercy’

10 June, 2013 - Pope Francis on Sunday emphasized the infinite compassion of God saying He is pure mercy. “If we show our inner wounds, our sins, he always forgives us,” Pope Francis told a massive crowd in Rome’s St. Peter’s Square, that had gathered there to pray the weekly midday ‘Angelus’ with him. Speaking from his studio window overlooking the square, the Holy Father emphasized that we should not be afraid to approach Jesus because he has a “merciful heart.” The Church traditionally dedicates the month of June to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which reveals his infinite mercy towards people. The Pope said that the Feast of the Sacred Heart, which this year was celebrated on June 7, “sets the tone” for the whole month. Reflecting on Sunday’s Gospel episode of Jesus raising the dead son of the widow of Nain, the Pope said, “The mercy of God gives life to man, it raises him from the dead.” “The Lord is always watching us with mercy, always awaits us with mercy,” he added. Explaining further, Pope Francis said the “the mercy of Jesus is not just sentiment: indeed it is a force that gives life, that raises man up!” He recalled Jesus, who in Mathew’s Gospel said: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart.” And again, the blood and water flowing from the pierced side of Christ, meant God’s “forgiveness and life for all men.” (Source: CNA/EWTN)