Connecting Point: Mandate of Mercy

In life we have an important choice between being merciful or vengeful. We most definitely are living currently in a culture that’s on pins and needles. People are at great odds over

matters that shouldn’t drive us apart. The truth is, when someone wrongs us our natural tendency is to return the hurt, to stick it to them real good. I strongly believe there is a better alternative.

Rather than choosing vengeance one can deliberately choose to be full of mercy, practicing Christ-like virtues daily. No one said this would be easy; Jesus fully understood the cost of self-sacrifice. While being crucified on the cross together with two criminals, Jesus said, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing,” (Luke 23:34). Certainly many of the religious leaders knew exactly what they were doing; they

considered Jesus to be a blasphemer. On the other hand, some of the Roman authorities such as Pontius Pilate didn’t want Christ’s blood on his hands. Also, some in the crowd joined thirsty for blood. Jesus understood the spiritual battle and gave his life. Jesus exemplified mercy and forgiveness.

At least two scripture examples clarify our subject. First, the Ninevites were well-known for their evil, so much so that Jonah didn’t want to have anything to do with them, especially be a messenger of mercy. God had a much different viewpoint, “But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?”

(Jonah 4:11). Isn’t it quite astonishing that Jonah had such a hard heart towards the people of Nineveh? This book of the Bible is a great example of how God was correcting his own messenger for the greater purpose of demonstrating mercy.

Second, in 2 Chronicles 33 we are given the history of Manasseh king of Judah. He took the throne early at twelve years old and ruled for fifty-five years. The Bible states that he “did evil in the eyes of the Lord.” Authorities quite agree, Manasseh was one of the least merciful rulers. Later in his reign the king of Assyria took Manasseh as prisoner. It was only then that he turned to God. “In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God, (2 Chronicles 33:12-13).” Here is a noteworthy example of how an ungodly leader was shown mercy.

We, too, can learn from these historical examples and be mandated by mercy every day of our lives, the alternative to be vengeful isn’t the heart of God whatsoever. Therefore, I will choose mercy no matter someone’s political viewpoint, health related matter, or lifestyle choice.