Matthew 5:7 AMP
[7] “Blessed [content, sheltered by God’s promises] are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
Today's extract focuses on another set of people who have God's approval and backing, and this one would not be a surprise, as it also reflects God's nature, which is mercy. A definition of mercy, available online, is given thus: 'compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm'. Reflect in this: you have someone who has clearly done wrong, and there is a clear prescription on what the consequences for that wrong are. This is not something that is left to the discretion of the One with the power, or grey areas that are not clear. A law, principle or policy has been broken, and the law has laid down what should happen in that instance. Anyone seeing the punishment or consequence applied will not feel slighted, because the 'right' thing has been done according to law.
This is why the nature of mercy is such an amazing thing. It recognises the wrong done, yet it seeks ways to bring the offender to the place of forgiveness, restoration and renewal. It does not always seek retribution or just measure for the wrong that has been done, but always seeks ways to bridge the gap between the offence and the good end that is the plan of God. As you reflect on the above, think of the pain and hurt that Jesus must have felt as He hung on the cross, paying the full price for the sin He did not commit, but He knew we could not fully pay for. He took on our humanity, without the burden and curse of sin, and paid the full and final price for past, present and future sins. It is not a wonder, then, that He is qualified to speak of the benefits and blessings of mercy, as He has shown extensively how mercy works. He has laid down an example, that we should follow in His steps.
As I consider the above, the question then is: 'Am I reflecting the nature of the God I claim to know and follow? It has to be noted that the message of the verse above is for the disciples, not the crowd. The crowd is content to stay at the foot of the mountain, but for all who dare to come up the mountain and sit at the feet of Jesus, the verse above applies to you. The demand of the verse above is not for the indecisive and undecided many, but for the few who are sure of the call of God upon their lives, and are ready to pursue God's plan, purpose and passion for their lives. Before you seek the blessing, be sure you are aligned with the demand. Also, be sure that whatever you give is what you will get in return. God is not unjust, and His Word can never be broken. To receive mercy, I must show mercy. Is my present life reflecting the fact that the merciful God is in charge? God's time of favour is here.
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