Greetings Prayer Warriors,
Do you ever ask yourself, what should mercy look like within the family? Not our definition, but God’s?
Is it overlooking everything, or being patient with another’s bad behavior knowing that we aren’t exactly perfect?
Be merciful, just as [also] your Father is merciful. “Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Luke 6:36-37
Or is it loving someone through their missteps, but still encouraging change?
Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, [and] from now on do not sin any more.” John 8:11-23
The last line of this scripture is the most telling: “from now on do not sin any more.” With complete love and compassion, the Lord tells Mary Magdalene to “sin no more”. This is a call to holiness!
God created each of us for a specific purpose and reason, in accordance with his perfect plan. He longs to see our cooperation in the fulfillment of that plan, which will lead us to holiness.
We are not our feelings, bad choices, or wrong decisions. That does NOT define us nor the members of our family. The Lord made that very clear. He sees each of us as he made us. He challenges us to become who he created us to be.
Mercy is loving someone along their journey, not defining them by an action or deed nor allowing them to define themselves in that manner. It is calling them to be more, not affirming them in an identity not ordained by God. A person will never find true peace and joy, if they don’t first recognize the love God has for them. One experiences Divine Love through others. We are called to be the shining lamp of his love. Peace and joy flow from finding one’s identity in God. Mercy is guiding a family member towards that fulfillment.
Mercy is not condemning someone, but praying for them. It’s asking the Lord for the grace to see them through God’s eyes, not ours.
You formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother’s womb. I praise you, because I am wonderfully made. Psalm 139:13-14
Indeed you are. God doesn’t make mistakes. Be merciful and make that known!
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
Increase your love and mercy wattage! Pass it on!
