The Blood That Saves and the Mercy That Frees

Exod 11:10-12.14; Psalm: 115; Mt 12:1-8

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect on two profound truths found within the Scriptures. These truths speak to our hearts and whisper hope to our souls. They are the blood that saves and the mercy that frees. Let us journey through these concepts, beginning in the book of Exodus.

In Exodus chapter eleven, we find ourselves amidst chaos. The Israelites were in bondage, facing overwhelming odds as they prepared for the final plague. God instructed them to mark their doorposts with the blood of a lamb. This was not just an act of obedience, but a declaration of faith. The blood of the lamb would serve as a sign. It would be their shield against the destruction that would pass over Egypt. In this moment, they were reminded that salvation comes through sacrifice. The blood of the lamb was the saving grace that offered divine protection amid disaster. God’s shelter was not just a physical refuge; it was a profound spiritual assurance that He was with them, even in their darkest hour.

As we reflect on this, let us consider the Passover lamb in our modern disasters. The words of St. Teresa of Calcutta resonate deeply. She said that when disasters strike, we are to cling to the Cross, for the Blood of Jesus is our only safe house. This is not merely a metaphor; it is a reality that we can lean into. In times of fear and uncertainty, we are invited to find refuge in the blood that saves.

In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter Jesus, who declares Himself as Lord of the Sabbath. Here, we witness the heart of God revealed. He prioritizes mercy over legalism. Jesus offers us dignity and worth, reminding us that He has the authority to restore what has been broken. In the face of human-made crises, Pope Francis urges us that when human dignity is threatened, the Church must choose mercy over protocol. This is a call to action, a challenge to embody the mercy that frees. We live in a world rife with natural disasters, manmade tragedies, and personal burdens. Storms rage, pandemics sweep across nations, and the weight of grief can feel insurmountable.

Yet, amid these struggles, we are called to be a spiritual fortress. The blood that saves offers us not just protection, but also the strength to extend that mercy to others. We must ask ourselves how we can mark our homes with Christ’s blood. This means inviting His presence into every corner of our lives. It means recognizing that we are bearers of His mercy and grace.

In our daily interactions, let us choose mercy over judgment. Let us be instruments of peace and healing in a world that often feels chaotic. As we conclude, remember that we are called to be a Passover people. We are to live in the light of the blood that saves and the mercy that frees. Let us embrace this calling with open hearts, knowing that in Christ, we find our shelter and strength. May we always cling to the cross, and may we extend that mercy to all who cross our paths. Amen.

St. John Chrysostom on Passover:
“The lamb’s blood saved Israel not by its own power, but by faith in God’s word. So too, the Eucharist saves those who trust in Christ.”

St. Faustina Kowalska on mercy:
“When the world burns with hatred, pour out the Blood and Water from My Heart—it will extinguish evil.” (Diary, 299)

St. Óscar Romero amid war:
“God’s Passover is our promise: no night of oppression lasts forever. The Blood of the Lamb will conquer.”