The Conquest of Mercy

Mark the glory of the cross!

That cross which his enemies insulted, is now set on the forehead of kings.

The event thus proved its virtue:

For he vanquished the world, not by the sword, but by the cross.

The Lord saw injustice and rebellion in the city,

and he stretched forth his hands to an unbelieving and rebellious people.

And yet, waiting even for them,

He said: Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.

St. Augustine, Treatise on the Psalms