READ: LUKE 15:1-3, 11-32

Life can be tough, and we all make mistakes, but one thing that remains constant is God’s mercy. In moments of doubt, fear, or guilt, we often forget just how merciful our heavenly Father is. So, let’s dive into this wonderful aspect of God’s character and reflect on the question: Isn’t it merciful?

What even is mercy anyway? Mercy is often defined as compassion or forgiveness shown by someone in a position of power toward someone who deserves punishment. In essence, it’s about withholding punishment or offering kindness when it’s not deserved. We all sin, and we all fall short of God’s glory— however, God’s mercy is abundant (Romans 3:23-24).

Remember this: God’s mercy is unfailing. It’s not based on what we do or don’t do; it’s a gift freely given (Ephesians 2:1-10; Titus 3:3-7). And Lamentations 3:22-23 tells us that God’s mercies are new every morning. No matter how many times we stumble or fall, God’s mercy is there to pick us up and set us on the right path.

But, humans are imperfect. You may sometimes feel overwhelmed by your own imperfections. You might worry about falling short of expectations, not just from others but also from yourself. But remember, God knows your weaknesses, and His mercy is tailor-made for your imperfections (Hebrews 4:14-16). He knows all your flaws, and He loves you anyway. He loves you so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you so that you can be forgiven and dwell with Him for eternity (1 Peter 1:3-9).

So, we can now live out God’s mercy. God’s mercy isn’t just for us to receive; it’s also for us to extend to others (Colossians 3:12). We have opportunities every day to show mercy to our friends, family, and people we interact with at school, work, church, the grocery store, etc. By offering forgiveness and compassion, we can be living examples of God’s mercy.

So, let’s revisit the question: Isn’t it merciful? Yes, God’s mercy is a gift that keeps on giving, and it’s available to us every day! We are loved and cherished, imperfections and all. And as we carry the awareness of God’s mercy in our hearts, it shines through our actions toward others. God is always ready to forgive and heal, to welcome us with open arms. • Matthew Shumway

• Can you think of a time someone showed you mercy? What was that like?

• In Jesus’s parable (or symbolic story) in Luke 15, what do you notice about God’s mercy?

The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT)