Floodgates of Mercy

The Marian Fathers present this Lenten devotional series to help you prepare to receive graces on Easter and Divine Mercy Sunday.

Readings: Acts 5:12-16, Ps 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24; Rev 1:9-11A, 12-13. 17-19; Jn 20:19-31
Diary: 299, 570, 742

"His mercy endures forever." - Ps 118:1

Today has two liturgical names, but it's not a choice. The "or" here means "otherwise known as." So, even if your parish doesn't have a solemn observance of Divine Mercy Sunday, you are still celebrating it.

In her Diary, St. Faustina recorded 14 revelations from our Lord requesting this feast. The most complete, concise description is found in entry 699:

I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and a shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners. ... The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet. ... It is My desire that it be solemnly celebrated on the first Sunday after Easter. Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My mercy.

To receive the promised graces, go to Confession in preparation for the feast, remain in a state of grace to receive Communion on the feast, and receive with great trust in Divine Mercy. These graces also are available through the Saturday Vigil Mass. Veneration of the Divine Mercy Image is encouraged.

Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for the extravagance of graces You offer me this day through Your great mercy.

Missed a day? See previous "From Ashes to Mercy" daily meditations.