Exploring the Philosophy Behind Divine Mercy

Description

Mercy is one of the virtues we do not usually discuss, even though it is always present
in our lives. Mercy is at the heart of the Christian understanding of life and the world, of man,
and the good. It is part of love and not part of it at the same time or in the same way; it is
more than love, and at the same time, it is something less than love. There are many
paradoxes and mysteries in mercy that transcend our comprehension and transfix our pride.
This is because mercy itself is a mystery. It looks like something evident and normal to us, and
at the same time, it provokes admiration and respect when we witness the acts involving it.
ÒLove thy neighbor,Ó Christ preaches. But what exactly should this love be? What are
its dimensions and limits? In essence, Christian love is unconditional and infinite; but in this
(earthly) world, we must comply with certain limitations. We must base our behavior on
specific values and moral norms. Sometimes, people do not behave the same way we do. That
is why it is essential to be prudent and reasonable in our interactions with them. Should we
love all people, and if so, how? How can we express our mercy to the poor, the suffering, and
the criminals? What to do with those who do not want to live anymore because of unbearable
pain?
This book will answer all these questions from the point of view of philosophy as well
as of the Christian doctrine. The book is not entirely theological in nature; it combines
philosophical with psychological and social observations. It gives some advice and guidance
for reflection without providing ready-made answers. The reader must find them for
themselves.

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