"But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy....James
3:17
Mercy rolls off the tongue pretty easily...but it's a really difficult concept to truly wrap our minds around.
The perfect "picture" of mercy (at least in my mind,) is Jesus hanging on the cross, and asking forgiveness for those who are murdering Him. "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do."
Mercy = ἔλεος
Transliteration =
eleos
Meaning = kindness or good will towards the miserable and the afflicted, joined with a desire to help them
a) of men towards men: to exercise the virtue of mercy, show one's self merciful
b) of God towards men: in general providence; the mercy and clemency of God in providing and offering to men salvation by Christ
"But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am
not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." Matthew 9:13
"Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy." Matthew 5:7
Is it possible to not only offer mercy to those who don't deserve it, but to also have a heart that aches for these people?
I have to admit; I don't sometimes "feel" very merciful towards others who lash out at me, or who belittle me for things that they don't agree with me on (either by public inference, or with angry,
private rebuke.)
However, "feelings" can change, if we allow the love of Jesus Christ to take hold of our hearts through the amazing work of His Holy Spirit.
If not for Christ's mercy, where would I be? Can I extend mercy that springs from a heart that knows Jesus? Yes, with God ALL things are possible!
Have a great day and God bless!
