“I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.” (Matthew 9:13) - Daily Bible Reflections May 25,2015

A WAY BACK   How great the mercy of the Lord, his forgiveness of those who return to him. — Sirach 17:24          Going to confession is always a time of grace for me. As a full-time mom with three young kids, it’s actually like a mini-retreat for me. Ironically, ever since I had kids, my sins seem to revolve around my being a not-so-good mom — especially my impatience, short temper and unkindness towards my own flesh and blood.        Recently, I went to confession and the priest gave me this penance: “Love your kids. Take care of them.” I wanted to ask him, “Are you sure that’s all, Father? Don’t I deserve a harder penance?” But then I realized how God was ministering to me through the priest’s words. Because I had sinned through my thoughts, actions and deeds as a “monster mom,” He was also providing “a way back” for me through my vocation as a mother.        Are you in a sinful state right now (as we all are at some point in our lives)? Don’t fret — it’s never too late to repent of your sins and turn back to Jesus… and once you decide to do so, He’ll provide “a way back” for you, too, just like He does for me. Tina Santiago-Rodriguez (tina@trulyrichmom.com)   Reflection: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.” (Matthew 9:13)   Lord, I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. But only say the word and my soul shall be healed.   St. Bede the Venerable, priest and doctor of the Church, pray for us.