Mercy

The word "mercy" has several applications in the English language. Two definitions found in the dictionary are:

1. Compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender
2. Compassionate treatment of those in distress

Whether a person is suffering stress and conflict, or they are guilty of offending another person, mercy cannot be received unless it is first given.

In other religious systems, such as Islam, mercy is not a dominate characteristic. But the heart of Christianity -- the very foundation of our salvation -- is mercy.

Christ was superior in showing mercy. From the helpless sick He healed, to the guilty offender He had forgiven (e.g. Zachias, dying thief etc), Jesus provided great mercy.

The process is supposed to continue with us. Christians, of all people, should be people of mercy. But we aren't. I often meet people who stay away from church because of the conflicts, divisions, and hostility they've seen among believers -- all without mercy for one another.

Mercy must begin in the church of Jesus Christ. No one but forgiven sinners are as qualified to show mercy. Let's apply the mercy we've received to others.