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I. Here is a coalition of the MOST BLESSED QUALITIES. "Mercy," a modification of love, love commiserating: "truth," which means reality, eternally antagonistic to all shams and hypocrisies; "righteousness," the immutable law of the moral universe, to which all must bow sooner or later; "peace," not insensibility, inaction, or stagnation, but the moral repose of souls centred in God. These are the moral qualities here specified; and more precious are they a thousand times than all the gems of ocean, or orbs of immensity.

II. Here is a coalition of blessed qualities that HAVE BEEN SEPARATED. In all human history, ever since the introduction of sin, these blessed qualities have been working separately and even antagonistically. There has been "mercy" without "truth," and "peace" of a certain kind, without "righteousness." They have not worked together either in communities or in individuals, hence the constant agitations and struggles in all human life.

III. Here is a coalition of qualities BLESSED IN THEIR REUNION. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." These celestial sisters come together and embrace one another with delight. Blessed is this union! Let them be united in our hearts and conduct!

(Homilist.)

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KJV: Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

WEB: Mercy and truth meet together. Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.