Mercy

"It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but the sinners." Matthew 9:13


What am I supposed to do? How am I supposed to act? To use my time? Jesus cares deeply about this. "I desire mercy," He says. What is it to show someone mercy? To forgive and to nurture.


Lord, this doesn't come naturally to me. I cannot do it without You, but then, You already know that. Your scripture is full of references to the Holy Spirit, which helps. Which overrides my own way of thinking. 


I pray for that today. Override my own way of thinking. You desire mercy, and You show me mercy. 


I'm resisting You. Why? Because getting up early is hard. Because I'm busy. Because I forget what it's like to follow You and have Your guidance. Then I stop believing that You exist, let alone that You offer guidance.


The Bible is teeming with cross references. Matthew 9:13 refers back to Hosea 6:6. The basic themes hold together, and intricately fit together. Let me see that as proof of something supernatural going on.


I pray that You will show me who needs You today, and show me how I can help. Dad? I will give him a call. 


I pray for Lily, who is frustrated and obstinate and full of tears these days. I pray that You would show me how to handle her. She is my sweet girl.


I pray for Isabel, that You would watch over her and protect her today. Keep her safe.


I pray for Lee, that You would be with him at work today, whatever's expected of him.


In Your son's name I pray.
Amen