Thoughts for another day

Nov. 14, 2007

Today's verse: 1 Sam. 9:16. …for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

In the picture of God in the bible, we can see, after love, the greatest, is His compassion and mercy. It is but fitting to Praise God for His love but even more for His mercy. For love keeps room for justice, but mercy provides an escape route. Justice demands its due from the Maker, Who has instated justice as the equilibrium between good and bad. For when the bad steals and becomes heavy on the scale, justice takes over and brings about balance. Justice demanded death for us humans for that was the norm and it needed to be met; but the Lamb of God met that demand Himself and shielded us.

In the background of a continued saga of defiance by the Israelites toward God, in their wanton acts of idol worship and practice of every kind of immorality, including the audacity of asking Samuel the prophet to seek a king from God who would rule over them, God was terribly hurt. Imagine His own people rejecting Him openly in idol worship and also rejecting His Kingship in seeking an earthly king. Yet, in the above verse we see the merciful heart of God concerned about His people when they turn back.

My friend, there is much to know about God’s mercy. Look for a while in your mind’s eye and see Jesus on the cross, struggling to breathe and writhing in pain. Then see Him look up to the Father and say, ‘Forgive them for they know not what they do.’ Perhaps then the greatness of God’s mercy will be etched on your heart enabling you to be in turn, merciful. Let’s pray for each other that this awesome Grace come to us today and remain with us.