Mercy

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Matthew 5:7

 I do what I do for Mary Addison out of love and obedience, but on some level we all believe the hype, “There is a special place in heaven for people like you.”  One day I will get a reward.  However, Jesus tells us that our reward will be mercy.  I don’t really think of myself as someone who needs to be shown mercy.  So this verse really stopped me in my tracks.

To me, mercy has always been compassionate treatment of those in distress.  Mary is the one in distress.  I am the one who is healthy and capable and doing the serving.  So, why do I need mercy?

OK.  I know I am a sinner, but Jesus died on the cross for my sins.  I have salvation.   Again, why do I need mercy?  Because, if I am honest, I can admit that I really am in distress.  I get overwhelmed, feel isolated, lose my temper, want to quit, resent others, have regrets, etc. on a daily basis!  If it were not for the merciful assistance of my loving God, I would have given up a long time ago.

Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

 22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
       for his compassions never fail.

 23 They are new every morning;
       great is your faithfulness.