Holy Year of Mercy or Just Another Day in the Traver's Family

Today I saw an article in the paper indicating that the Pope has marked the beginning of "Holy Year of Mercy".  While I am not Catholic some of my dearest friends are.  I respect the love of the faith, religion and the dedication my friend Bill Travers, Sr.and his son Father Patrick Travers have for Christ.

Bill Travers Sr.

These two men exemplify the meaning of "Mercy".  They practice what they believe every day, they live a life of mercy and grace.  They pray for so many, remember so much and are blessed to believe in ways many of us just dream about.

Bill has buried two wives, countless family members and friends, fought in wars and traveled the world back again.  His son Patrick has been on the front lines of many battlefields, praying, consoling and guiding our troops.  The entire Travers family is a "Family of Mercy.'

Father Patrick Travers

Pope Francis stated "How much wrong we do to God and his grace when we speak of sins being punished by his judgment before we speak of their being forgiving by his mercy.  We have to put mercy before judgment, and in any event God's judgment will always be in the light of his mercy."

For me, the "Holy Year of Mercy" became of Life of Mercy when I found Jesus.  By His grace I am forgiven and given much.  He gifted these two amazing men and their entire family to me through tragedy.  The losses we have suffered together have bonded our friendship into a family.

So as the Pope begins "The Year of Mercy", look around at the amazing people and gifts God has given you.  I bet you will be amazed at the wonderful life you have no matter what the circumstances.  I know for me, it's the people around you that matter the most.

Make this year your life altering "Life of Mercy" for someone else.