Mercy

Mercy is not a gift that is easily found these days. Rather than showing a little mercy, we all want our pound of flesh. We stand ready to judge others for differing opinions and the slightest mistake. Infractions are met with demands ranging from apologies to loss of a job or reparations. Politicians are quick to judge opponents and issue scathing attacks.

When we were kids, we were quick to announce the misdeeds of our siblings. Our parents may have done us a disservice by demanding that our offending sibling apologize, but not instructing us, victims, to show mercy.

God has much to offer us on the topic of mercy. Psalm 145:9 says, “The Lord is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works. In everything that God does, He is merciful. The verse just before the one above says, “The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness.” Mercy and grace are an integral part of God’s character.

What does that mean for us? God is ready to grant mercy to His children, He does have a requirement for those who receive His mercy. Matthew 5:7 says, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. ” God expects us to show mercy to those who may hurt us, because we have received bountiful mercy. If we can show this kind of mercy, the world will be changed.