We Catholics have a problem with:  UNCONDITIONAL. Whether it's about mercy or love, we cannot grasp the scope. Perhaps it's because our instruction has been about CONDITIONS and LIMITS that mitigate against belief in  "UNconditional." 

It seems we are more willing, even eager, to accept the certainty of punishment than of unconditional love and mercy. We proclaim God's unconditional mercy but always follow it, "that being said..." then proving we won't accept the literal gift. Too radical! And a big fear: Too lenient!

Many apologists say there are "conditions on unconditional." They tell us something  unconditional is horrific, sure to evoke "anything goes" behaviors. They can't accept that unconditional  might mean exactly what it says. It's too big a risk to accept that revolutionary concept. 

On love, on mercy:

There must be rules...
sentencing guidelines...
 controls...
conditions.


Francis must remind us there are limits on limitless and conditions on unconditional. NOT!