26 But I prayed to the Lord! I said: Lord, my Lord! Don’t destroy your people, your own possession, whom you saved by your own power, whom you brought out of Egypt with a strong hand! 27 Remember your servants: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob! Don’t focus on this people’s stubbornness, wickedness, and sin.
Reflection
Bible Gateway is a great online study guide and research tool that is free and easy to use. I use the Plus Version that is between $3 and $5 dollars a month and worth much more than that with 60 plus resources in the form of Study Bibles, Encyclopedias, Commentaries, Dictionaries and more. I wasn’t sure what I was being called to say for this particular piece of scripture and ended up going to the NIV Thompson Chain Reference Bible and found our scripture described as Mercy.
Mercy is God’s loving and compassionate concern for humanity, especially when we are undeserving. The Bible defines mercy as an unmerited favor that goes beyond justice.
- Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV): “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
This verse reminds us that God’s mercy is renewed every day, emphasizing its everlasting nature.
Jesus frequently used parables to teach about mercy. Two well-known parables are below:
- The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37):
- A Samaritan helps a wounded traveler, showing mercy while religious figures pass by.
- Key Lesson: True mercy transcends societal prejudices and is shown through tangible actions.
- The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32):
- A father welcomes his wayward son back with open arms despite his past mistakes.
- Key Lesson: God’s mercy is always available, no matter how far we stray.
Many biblical examples show mercy; here are but two:
- Joseph (Genesis 45:1-15): Joseph forgives his brothers for selling him into slavery.
- Jesus (John 8:1-11): Jesus shows mercy to a woman caught in adultery, advising her to “go and sin no more.”
These examples are testimony to the life-transforming power of mercy. Can you think of moments in your life where showing, or being shown, mercy, made a difference?
Mercy is more than a biblical concept; it is a life principle that can transform relationships and communities.
- Forgiving Others: Emulate God’s mercy by forgiving those who wrong you, just as God forgave the Israelites in Deuteronomy 9 after they worshipped the golden calf.
- Helping Those in Need: Like the Good Samaritan, provide assistance without expecting anything in return.
- Empathy and Compassion: Understand the struggles of others and offer support in their times of need. We may soon see more opportunities to help those who are poor, migrants, immigrants and refugees.
As you incorporate mercy into your life, ask yourself, in what ways can I be more merciful in my daily interactions?
by Clarence Beverage
For Pondering and Prayer
In a world that can feel harsh and unforgiving, mercy offers hope and healing. Embracing Mercy aligns us with biblical teaching but also enriches our lives and the lives of those around us. Share these thoughts with someone who you feel might need some encouragement.
Through understanding and practicing mercy we open our hearts to experience grace and compassion, and we can be transformed.
Are there areas in your life where you need to practice offering mercy?
Where do you see opportunities (your heart is called to) show mercy to someone today?
Prayer: Dear Lord, open us to your peace for our turmoil, your wisdom for our confusion,
your strength for our weakness, your love to overcome our lack of love, and your forgiveness for ours sins. Amen.
