Year of Mercy Column: What Is Mercy?

Author: Peter Yaremko The Hebrew word “hesed” is often translated as “mercy.” But “mercy” as commonly understood today does not do justice to the richness and depth of meaning of “hesed.” A fuller translation of “hesed” would encompass concepts like trustworthy,...

Year of Mercy Column: Christmas

Author: Peter Yaremko The Old Testament book of Exodus warns us that no one can see God and live. But during these days of celebration of the Nativity, we are mindful that in his mercy, God has, in fact, showed us his face. It is the innocent and inviting face of an...

Year of Mercy Column: What Does “Jubilee” Mean?

Author: Peter Yaremko Jubilee years have a deep history in the Hebrew scriptures. According to Leviticus, slaves and prisoners were freed, debts forgiven, land and possessions returned to their rightful owners. Perhaps most important, during such a year the mercy of...