“…I will have mercy…”

And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.

And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?

But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.

But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Matt. 9:10-13

 

[“mercy” = God’s attitude to us when we are in distress; loving-kindness; covers our sins. “I desired mercy, and not sacrifice.” This is quoted from Hos. 6:6; same in Matt. 12:7. Jesus’ mercy led Him to befriend sinners.]

 

As we incline our hearts to show mercy, God’s mercy covers us in all our needs, Matt. 5:7: “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” Is there someone to whom I may show mercy today, Lord? Mercy enables us to forgive freely and fully; mercy enriches us to give freely and abundantly.

Mercy comes first, not sacrifice (sacrifice = conformity to the letter of the law). This is especially important for parents in their relationship with their children (Ps.103: 13). Jesus said in Matt. 12:7: “But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.” This was in response to those who complained that His disciples broke the Sabbath when they picked the heads of grains and ate.

 

 

O Father of mercies (2 Cor. 1:3), help me see where I have failed to show mercy, so I may repent, show mercy, and receive mercy. Lord, I come to the Mercy Seat (Heb. 4:16).

May my heart be always inclined to mercy, Lord.  May I be occupied with deeds of mercy. Thankful that I have received mercy at the cross, Lord, let me not delay to show mercy. Amen.