Consequently, if we do not advance in our spiritual growth — if we do not seek the means to form ourselves in the faith and find concrete ways to practice charity — we will be left with nothing more than mere observance of rules. Our faith will then transform into a roadmap of behaviors and moral demands which, far from being charitable and exemplary, becomes a burden that is difficult to bear.

A powerful tool and an immense grace available to us for growing in faith, in a manner holy and highly pleasing to God, is the path of Divine Mercy. Its propagation has increased considerably because it offers a simple and direct route to this month’s celebration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The Solemnity of Divine Mercy is celebrated the Sunday following Easter; it serves as the finest way to commemorate the resurrection, for in doing so, we are reminded that Christ’s self-offering was a lavish outpouring of mercy toward us. Here are seven of the many invitations found in the Diary of St. Faustina Kowalska, where Jesus explains what truly pleases him and wherein the path of mercy truly consists.

1. Cultivate spiritual childhood: A humble heart receives God’s blessing, for he rejects the proud and embraces those who strive to become like children. He delights in the simplicity of the soul; for although his greatness is inconceivable, he deals only with the “little ones.”

2. Trust in God and be courageous: Satan invariably takes advantage of moments of darkness and humiliation to launch attacks against our faith, our hope and our charity. The Lord tells us: “Do not fear: I am with you” (Is 41:10). Fear distances us from God, for his companionship is our true solace. It enables us to face suffering in peace, filled with the joy of knowing that we are loved and accompanied forever: “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt 29:20).

Christ asks St. Faustina: “Why do you fear and tremble when you are united to me? … The soul dearest to me is the one that believes firmly in my goodness and trusts fully in me. I offer it my confidence and grant it everything it asks.”

3. Avoid murmuring and gossip, sources of ruin: Silence is always preferable; it serves as a shield against bitterness and slander and prevents us from mistreating our neighbor. Many faults are avoided through silence. Silent lips are pure gold! They bear witness to one’s inner holiness.

4. Cultivate inner silence to hear God: God does not reveal himself to a garrulous soul. Inner noise is a sign that the soul is empty within, lacking fundamental virtues and true intimacy with God. It is a heroic act to remain silent when being reprimanded, for it is a sign of humility, docility and complete surrender to God.

5. Seek the wisdom of your heart and spirit: If all souls were willing to listen to Christ’s voice when he speaks in the depths of their hearts, they would reach the pinnacle of holiness in a very short time.

6. Love your neighbor through deeds, not merely words: Mercy is demanding! Faith without works, no matter how strong, is futile. There are two specific actions that truly reflect love for one’s neighbor: the first is to be patient with those who cause us difficulties; the second is to forgive wholeheartedly. A merciful heart receives abundant graces from God.

7. Combat your envy: The spirit of Jesus is simple, gentle and sincere. Every act of malice, every instance of envy and lack of kindness, concealed beneath a smile of affability, is a cunning “devil.” Let’s learn to give thanks for the good that others receive, and even for the good that God allows to be withheld from us. He knows better than anyone else exactly what we need at every moment.

These seven invitations, extended to St. Faustina by Jesus, can help us grow in our spiritual lives. If we put them into practice, even if it’s just one of them, we will witness great fruits within our hearts and our inner selves.

The most beautiful part of all is that we will feel the love of the Sacred Heart pouring into us, becoming a wellspring of eternal life all around us. Let us allow the short prayer of Divine Mercy to serve as a balm for our souls by praying, “Sacred heart of Jesus, I trust in you.”

Learn more 

On June 11, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Visit usccb.org/weholdthesetruths for a Sacred Heart Novena and numerous resources.