What Does it Mean to be Merciful?

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called sons of God.

-Matthew 5:7-9

As followers of Christ we are called to be people with attitudes of mercy towards others. Let’s understand that mercy is not just the absence of violence. I don’t harm anyone physically, I don’t go around beating people up, and I have never killed anyone – but does simply not doing those things make me a merciful person? Christ calls us to take it a step further and put our mercy into action. Mercy is where we resolve to help others, love others, be kind, compassionate, and forgiving to others whether they deserve it or not. When we reach out with a cup of cold water and give it to the one who is thirsty, without trying to determine if he deserves it or not, then we are showing mercy.

• Christ-like mercy takes no delight in the misfortunes of others.
• Christ-like mercy does not seek retaliation, retribution, against the one who has wronged us.
• Christ-like mercy loves those who have no intention of ever loving us in return.
• Christ-like mercy allows the Holy Spirit to drive hatred from our hearts to be replaced with the love of Christ.

Jesus calls His followers to function at heights of faith and depths of grace attainable only to those walking in His power. We are blessed and empowered when we seek to be like Jesus in all areas of our lives.