What I Learned From Praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet
What if it’s awkward? What will I say? What will other people say? What if it’s uncomfortable? How will people react?
I reached for my rosary, eager to pray the familiar words of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, eager to cling to some semblance of peace. Interiorly, I was at war. I dreaded facing the social situation that was fast approaching, trying to find the “right” way to respond, and hoping others would, too. At the same time, Jesus was inviting me to trust, even in the midst of my discomfort. I was anxious and worried; but Jesus reminded me that He is my safety.
I was looking for a distraction from my discomfort, but Jesus was inviting me into the present moment. He wanted me to find my anchor in Him, not the book I was reading, not my phone, but Him. “Okay,” I whispered. “I will pray.”
The passing minutes brought the situation I wanted to avoid closer. And with each passing minute, I prayed “For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.” I was uncomfortable as I thought of what was coming, but He was my comfort and my safety. I couldn’t change the circumstances awaiting me; I couldn’t avoid them; I honestly couldn’t even avoid my discomfort.
I would have to face it. I did face it. But not on my own.
They were simple words to a simple prayer I had offered countless times before. I didn’t even finish the Chaplet before I had to walk into what initially scared me. But those words reminded me that I am safe. I am safe when I cling to Jesus. I am safe when I lift my focus to Him. I can distract myself all I want from discomfort. But Jesus is the only one who strengthens me to face it. And He is the only one who protects me while I do.
You can experience safety in His arms, too. You don’t have to wait until the comfort settles in. Reach to Him in the midst of your discomfort. He will give you the courage to face your fear, your weariness, your weakness, and your hopelessness. Let Him work today in those places that scare you; let Him be your safety as you cling to Him. He will protect you.