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Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. (Matthew
5:7)
After talking about righteousness, Jesus balances with a statement about
mercy. There can be no mercy without a standard of what is right and
wrong. Mercy only comes into play when someone has done wrong and the
ensuing consequences are known by all. Mercy is not giving someone the
punishment he or she deserves.
Balancing justice and mercy is critical for the follower of Jesus. When
those around us fall short of our expectations and goals, mercy needs to
be there. It is by being merciful that relationships are maintained and
can continue to move forward despite mistakes. Without mercy, people
lose heart -- no amount of assessment or correction can encourage them
to go on.
So, take it easy on your family, friends and coworkers. You want them to
do what's right, but they will mess up. The Lord likes it when you don't
give them the punishment they deserve ... and by the way, if you show
them mercy, then He'll be merciful to you in the unlikely event that you
mess up.
By fantastic mercy,
Mike
eDevotions written by Mike Sares. © 2005. |
