Dives in Misericordia: “He Who Sees Me Sees the Father” (4, continued)

Chapter 4 of “Dives in Misericordia” (“Rich in Mercy”) is entitled “The Concept of "Mercy" in the Old Testament.” It continues as follows:

“4. . . . It is significant that in their preaching the prophets link mercy, which they often refer to because of the people’s sins, with the incisive image of love on God’s part. The Lord loves Israel with the love of a special choosing, much like the love of a spouse,³⁷ and for this reason He pardons its sins and even its infidelities and betrayals. When He finds repentance and true conversion, He brings His people back to grace.³⁸ In the preaching of the prophets, mercy signifies a special power of love, which prevails over the sin and infidelity of the chosen people.”

37. Cf. e.g. Hosea 2:21-25 and 15; Isaiah 54:6-8.
38. Cf. Jeremiah 31:20; Ezekiel 39:25-29.

 

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Pope John Paul II: “Dives in Misericordia”