Episode 35: Receiving Divine Mercy in Grief

 “But one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.” John 19:34

Summary:

In this episode, Elizabeth Leon, Brittany Primeaux, and Kathy Purpera discuss the profound themes of grief and divine mercy, particularly during the Easter season. They explore the complexities of experiencing joy amidst sorrow, the significance of divine mercy in healing, and the various components of the Divine Mercy devotion, including the novena, the image, the feast, the chaplet, and the hour of mercy. The conversation also touches on practical ways to incorporate Divine Mercy into daily life, especially for grieving parents, and emphasizes the hope and healing that can be found through faith and community support.

Takeaways:

  • Grief can complicate the joy of Easter.

  • Divine mercy offers a refuge for those in sorrow.

  • Supernatural joy is different from worldly happiness.

  • Faith during grief is a miracle in itself.

  • The Divine Mercy novena provides hope and comfort.

  • The image of Divine Mercy holds promises of grace.

  • Mankind will find peace through God's mercy.

  • Experiencing grief can lead to a deeper understanding of Divine Mercy.

  • God's mercy is available to all, regardless of circumstances.

  • The Divine Mercy Chaplet is a powerful tool for healing.

  • Surrendering to God's will can bring peace amidst grief.


Sound Bites:

  • "It's complicated to be invited to rejoice when you are grieving."

  • "Divine Mercy is a refuge for all souls."

  • "Mercy is when God's love meets our need."

Discussion Questions:

  1. How have you navigated grief and joy? 

  2. Elizabeth describes climbing into the tomb with Jesus.  How does it feel to imagine your grief this way? 

  3. How have you experienced Divine Mercy in your grief?

  4. In what ways could you increase your devotion to Jesus’ Divine Mercy?

Elizabeth Leon

Elizabeth Leon is the Director of Family Support for Red Bird Ministries. She and her husband Ralph are from Ashburn, Virginia and have ten children between them - five of hers, four of his, and their son, John Paul Raphael who died on January 5, 2018. His short and shining life was a sacred experience that transformed her heart and left a message of love for the world: let yourself be loved. She writes about finding the Lord in the darkness of grief in her book Let Yourself Be Loved: Big Lessons from a Little Life, available wherever books are sold. Read more from Elizabeth at www.letyourselfbeloved.com.

Previous
Previous

Episode 36: Handling Hard Emotions

Next
Next

Episode 34: Healing to Lead (When am I Ready to Serve?)