The Impact of Mercy

by David Rollert

Sometimes the most impactful areas of ministry are the quietest. I can think back on the times when I have been hurting or in need, and the things that made the biggest difference for me were not the sermons or the big outreach events. The things that made the biggest difference to me in those dark and difficult moments were the quiet acts of mercy and generosity. The older gentleman sitting quietly with me after my mother passed away. The forgiveness extended when I did not deserve to be forgiven. I am sure that many of you have had similar experiences when quiet acts of mercy and generosity made a huge difference in your life.

Now, imagine the difference that you could make in the lives of others by being the person who gives the quiet acts of mercy. You could be that person who lifts others out of despair or grief!

James 3:13-18 speaks about the difference between worldly wisdom and Godly wisdom. In verse 17, James states: “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.”

Notice that godly wisdom is full of mercy! James does not say that it sometimes includes a little mercy or is occasionally merciful - it is FULL of mercy. But, why? Why is it wise to be merciful? Let’s consider some situations.

Imagine that a person is weak in their faith. They are depressed. They are doubting the things they have been taught. A harsh word or uncaring act may push them over the edge, causing them to leave the church entirely! However, an act of mercy, caring instruction, patient listening or simply commiserating with them shows them love in a practical way. That act of mercy may be what influences them to stay with Christ.

Or imagine a person who is not about to leave the church but is instead a faithful member who has made some small mistake. Perhaps they misspoke, saying something that was inaccurate in a Bible class. Or maybe they accidentally insulted you in conversation. Sure, at the moment they are strong enough that a harsh word will not push them away from Christ. But, over time those harsh words, the unnecessarily stern rebukes, and the unforgiving attitudes can build up and weigh them down. Continual mercilessness could be the thing that eventually makes them leave the church. However, if they receive mercy for their small mistakes and their unintentional insults, then they will instead continually feel the love of Christ.

Simply put, mercy is wise because mercy is loving. Mercy is wise because God is merciful. Mercy is wise because it imitates Christ (c.f. Ephesians 2:4-7).

Let’s be merciful people!