Surprised by Mercy

What is mercy, really—and why does it matter so much today? In this episode, Fred and Kara dive into the heart of Divine Mercy, exploring how God’s mercy heals, transforms, and calls us to do the same for others. With stories, Scripture, and personal reflections, they unpack mercy as more than forgiveness—it’s compassion in action. You’ll walk away inspired to receive mercy and live it out in your relationships and daily life.

In this full-length episode of Draw Near, we return to the mic for a heartfelt conversation on one of the most essential themes of our faith—mercy.

What does it really mean to be merciful? Is mercy just forgiveness, or something more? And in a world full of division, anxiety, and wounds, how can God’s mercy truly heal us and flow through us to others?

Together, we explore:

* How Scripture and the Catechism define mercy

* The surprising ways we’ve experienced God’s mercy in our lives

* Why mercy is essential to healing broken relationships—and how to live it

* Practical ways to grow in compassion, patience, and forgiveness (including with ourselves)

* Why mercy and truth must go hand-in-hand in today’s Church and culture

* A powerful story about St. Francis and rebuilding the Church with love and mercy

* What it means to show mercy without compromising truth

We also share personal stories of struggle, healing, and God’s never-ending patience, including a time of wrestling with anger toward God—and how mercy transformed it.