Pondering Thoughts of My Soul

What is Mercy?  The dictionary describes mercy as an act of kindness, compassion, or favor for someone.  God calls us to be merciful to others in Psalm 145:8. “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love.”  God also tells us in James 2:13, “For the judgment is merciless to one who has not shown mercy.”  We were in Las Vegas several years ago at a radon convention.  As my husband was in classes each day, I was left to explore.  Walking toward his convention center, I saw a homeless man lying beside the sidewalk.  Immediately, I was repulsed and stepped quickly away from him.   After lunch with the other wives, I walked back to our hotel.  I had not eaten all my sandwich, and I had wrapped the other half in paper to save it for later.   Returning to my hotel, I again saw the homeless man and several empty wine bottles strewn around.  He was awake.  In a moment of compassion, I asked him if he had eaten yet today.  He said no.  Without hesitation, I gave him my half-sandwich and prayed for him silently.  I believe that was showing mercy, just as God has shown mercy to me countless times.  I praise and thank you, dear Lord, for showing mercy to me, a sinner.  Please help me to be merciful to others.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen. Luke 6:36. “Be merciful, just as (also) your Father is merciful.”