Extending Mercy

We live in a world of vengeance.  Nations go to war to get back at each other.  Political parties disparage and denigrate their opponents.  People who are hurt seek retribution against their enemies.  Teenagers get bullied at school.  Children suffer abuse at the hands of others.  And sports teams love to get revenge on those who beat them in the past!  Tit-for-tat retribution and vengeance seems to be the name of the game in American society these days.  “Getting even” is the way things work.

Thankfully, Jesus introduces another way of doing life and relationships.  Jesus introduces a “circuit breaker” into the mad cycle of violence and retribution.   It’s called mercy.  If grace is getting what we don’t deserve (undeserved favor); mercy is not getting what we do deserve (punishment).   The Bible is clear:  Everyone has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).  The result of our sin is death (Romans 6:23).  The truth is:  We all have a death sentence hanging over our heads!

But that’s not what we get.  Those who place their faith and trust in Jesus can be saved from the deadly consequences of sin.  Jesus intervenes with grace and mercy on the cross so that we may live.  Even while we were yet sinners, Jesus died for us so that we could live forever with God.  Now that’s mercy!  And it is because of God’s mercy toward us, that we can in turn show mercy to others.  “Blessed are the merciful, for the will be shown mercy,” said Jesus.  Let a new cycle of mercy begin!

Join us this Sunday, October 12, as we explore the fifth of Jesus’ eight beatitudes.  Together we’ll discover examples of mercy and how we can extend mercy.  Worship begins at 10:00 AM.  The worship will lift you.  The message will inspire you.  The fellowship will warm you.  And the Holy Spirit will heal you.   A Children’s Church is provided for little ones.  Refreshments will follow the service for all.  The Discovery Class meets at 11:15 AM for all who are considering membership.  Please join us!