3rd Sunday of Lent
R. The Lord is kind and merciful.
Written by Eric Wilkes
I was once playing music for a retreat and I was singing this particular psalm which reads, “The Lord is Kind and Merciful.” After Mass, one of the teens on retreat approached me and asked me why I was singing that psalm. Confused, I said, “What do you mean?” He responded with, “Why are we singing ‘The Lord is kind of merciful?’” I laughed at the unexpected response and said, “Oh, I was singing ‘The Lord is Kind AND Merciful.’” In his defense, we were in a gym and it was a little hard to hear. I always think of this funny story when I sing this psalm at Mass.
As I was reflecting on this misunderstanding of the psalm, I realized that in the moment how contradictory it would’ve been to sing that psalm. But I quickly thought about how many times I mishear or misunderstand Who the Lord is and believe those words in my heart. When I look at challenging circumstances in my life and give into doubt, fear, and despair: “The Lord is kind of merciful.” When I compare myself to others and think that I am less good and lose sight of my identity as a child of God with inherent dignity and worth: “The Lord is kind of merciful.” When I get in the confession line for the same sins, internally wincing and burying myself in useless shame because I forgot how good, patient and loving God really is: “The Lord is kind of merciful.” I’ve been singing the lyrics wrong all along internally, and just never realized it. And maybe I’m not the only one.
In the midst of this Lenten season where we reflect on our sins, this psalm reminds us of God’s powerful mercy. The beautiful reality is that, the more we start understanding this psalm correctly and allow ourselves to receive God’s mercy and kindness, the more we will see ourselves living it out. When I am able to walk in the confidence of the mercy of God, I become more generous, consistent and brave in my attempts at virtue. This mercy of God is what has the power to make great saints. Sainthood, holiness, human flourishing, peace, generosity, our relationship to God - it all starts with a reception and radical internalization of the immense kindness and mercy that God is constantly offering to us at every moment. All we have to do is receive it and start again. So, let’s start singing this psalm correctly, not just in the music or the lyrics, but in the way we see and interact with God, ourselves, and others. “The Lord is Kind and Merciful.”
What are some practical ways you can remind yourself Who God is this week? Who might be someone God is asking you to show forgiveness and mercy to or at least begin the process of healing and reconciliation with? Where do you think God is calling you to be more merciful to yourself?
Eric Wilkes is a New Orleans based artist, musician and producer serving churches, communities, and ministries on a national level. He has been an artist, writer, co-writer, instrumentalist, and producer for several projects through NOVUM RECORDS, and is a part of the indie rock duo NOVUM. When he’s not playing music, leading worship or doing ministry, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Cori, his family, and his close friends relaxing and enjoying good conversations. When Eric needs medicine for his soul he finds it in new places, sunny days, vibey shops, trips to the ocean, chai tea lattes, playing piano in empty churches and late night adoration chapel visits. You can follow him on Instagram here.
Pray with today’s psalms.