Today’s Reading, Luke 10-11
Focal Scripture: Luke 10:37 “The one who showed mercy to him,” he said. Then Jesus told him, “Go and do the same.”
Mercy tells much about a persons heart and how they think about others. It doesn’t mean you are a pushover or that you don’t want justice. It does mean that when you are aware of how much God has done for you, it is easier to show mercy to others who have done you wrong. Or in your opinion don’t deserve mercy for any number of reasons. I can tell you from experience I have met many professing believers who claim to love Jesus but don’t practice mercy with others. Mercy is neighborly. Mercy is part of God’s attributes.
In today’s reading Jesus tells a story about a man who was robbed and beaten. A priest passed this man by and just moved over on the road and kept walking. A Levite did the same thing to this beaten and down trodden man. Then a Samaritan passed by and took great care of him, more than he needed. The Samaritan was full of love and compassion. He met his physical and finical needs. He even promised to come back and pay the inn keeper more of it was needed. His heart was for people. The religious people watched a person suffer and did nothing to help.
Sometimes I miss opportunities to show mercy to others. Mainly because I get stuck in my own little world and forget to see people holistically. However, when I do notice a need, I am all in so I can meet that need. I have learned through several people in ministry that mercy and compassion bear more fruit than judgement and fear.
I was once around a person that belittled people who struggled with drugs. They called them useless and even said they had no use for a druggy. What this person did not understand is mercy goes further than judgement. Yes, they needed to be held accountable. However, not realizing where they are and why they are struggling is part of the problem.
My challenge for you today is to show mercy to people you don’t believe deserve mercy. Why? Because when you show mercy, you show the heart of God. They will remember the act of kindness forever. Our mission is to be like Christ. Love passionately and show mercy the way the Lord shows mercy. It will not only change us but also change those around us on a daily basis.
Are you known as a person of mercy? Especially when it is difficult to give it to to people who we deem as unworthy.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Luke 12-13
