Justice and mercy. Not two contradictory realities, but two dimensions of a single reality that unfolds progressively until it culminates in the fullness of love. Justice is a fundamental concept for civil society, which is meant to be governed by the rule of law. Rightly due to each individual. Not infrequently led to legalism by distorting the legalistic perspective. Jesus speaks several times of the importance of faith over and above the observance of the law. Jesus is bent on revealing the great gift of mercy that searches out sinners and offers them pardon and salvation.
– Pope Francis, The Name of God Is Mercy