God has shown us mercy by not giving us what our sins deserve. And we’re called to extend this same compassion and kindness toward others – to love even when it’s not fair.
Justice seeks to give people what they deserve, no more and no less. It’s neither cheating them out of what is rightfully theirs, nor placing an unfair burden on them.
On the other hand, mercy is not about fairness.
Perhaps we’re well within our rights to make someone pay for their wrongs against us. But in mercy we choose to forgive them.
By extending mercy we’re choosing to take the hit and sacrifice even though something has been unjustly taken from us.
This is not a trait that usually comes naturally and we must grow into it with much practice.
To be fair, it does seem easier to offer to kids, those clearly disadvantaged, and those we already like. But the standard of love calls us to show mercy even to our enemies.
This doesn’t mean we become best friends, but we can show them kindness even when they don’t deserve it and have done nothing to earn it.
This is the example set by God – who in his great love sent Christ to die for us even though we we’re still sinners. And we’re called to love one another as he has loved us.
And this mercy is a game changer in transforming hearts. People become curious when we don’t treat them according to their sins, but according to God’s loving mercy and kindness toward us all.
Learning to love mercy frees our hearts from bitterness and resentment. And it provides a light for others as well.
Be a lover of mercy – showing deep kindness and compassion even when others don’t deserve it.
