The mercy of man is toward his neighbor; but the mercy of the Lord is upon all flesh: he reproves, and nurtures, and teaches and brings again, as a shepherd his flock.
All Commentaries on Wisdom of Sirach 18:13 Go To Wisdom of Sirach 18
Eusebius of Caesarea
AD 339
"Salvation is far from sinners, since they have not sought your decrees. Many are your mercies, Lord. Give me life according to your judgment." It is said, "The compassion of a person is toward his neighbor: but the mercy of God is on all flesh." As much as one might appear extremely just when compared with human beings, before God"s severe judgment he has need of mercy. Even the very fact that he seems just is due to the mercy of God, since who has ever done anything worthy of eternal blessedness and the kingdom of heaven without God"s help?