# Christmas: Jesus, the Human Face of God’s Mercy
*2015-12-17*

> Bill Young reflects on Pope Francis’ Season of Mercy reading for Christmas, emphasizing that Jesus, fully human and divine, reveals God’s mercy to the humble and suffering.

## Opening Prayer

Good afternoon. This is Bill Young, welcoming you to the Hour of Mercy at 3 p.m. on December 17. I’m reading from Pope Francis’ *Season of Mercy: Reflections for Living the Holy Year of Mercy, Season by Season*—the prayer for Christmas.

## Jesus, the Human Face of Mercy

Christmas reminds us that Jesus, born of the Virgin Mary, is truly human and divine. He entered history, sharing our journey, to free us from darkness and bring light. In Him we see God’s grace, mercy, and tender love. Jesus is God’s love incarnate—not merely a wise teacher or an ideal we strive toward while feeling distant from it. He is the meaning of life and history, pitching His tent among us.

## A Hope for the Humble and Forgotten

Jesus has special hope for the simple, the humble, the poor, the forgotten—those whom the world often overlooks. He knows human suffering and shows us the face of God’s mercy, bending down to heal body and soul. May we sense God’s presence beside us, His mercy, and His help.

## Prayer for the Year of Mercy

Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be merciful like your Heavenly Father and have said that wherever we see, we see God. Grant us faith so that we may be saved. You are the visible faith of the invisible Father, manifesting power above all through forgiveness and mercy. Let the Church be your visible face in the world. Send your Spirit and consecrate each of us with an anointing, that the year of mercy may be a year of grace from the Lord and your Church. With renewed enthusiasm, may we bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to the captive and oppressed, and restore the sight of the blind. Amen.

## Closing Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this prayer and reflection from Pope Francis for the Advent season.

*Jesus, fully human, reveals God’s mercy to the humble and suffering, calling the Church to be His visible face in the world.*