October 27: THE DIVINE CALL TO SHOW MERCY
“Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.” Matthew 5:7
The disciple of Christ, in a desire to become more like Him, will seek opportunities to show mercy to those in need. Our world is so filled with poverty and suffering that it is all too easy for a child of God to become overwhelmed; weighed down with sorrow and distress over the worsening conditions all around, including in our own neighborhoods, and even within our families. In one way, it helps to know that suffering and misery were not intended by the Creator. However, in allowing the scenario of evil to play out—within a limit—God is showing to us the mess that this world is in as a result of heeding a different voice; a voice that does not come from Him. Every one of us has given undue attention to the wrong voice. We have all contributed to the mess.
Sin that goes unchecked can utterly extinguish the love that God has placed in the heart of man. Jesus warned that, in the time of the end, the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:12). Do not allow this to happen in your own heart! The reason given for this state of affairs: lawlessness.
The Lord’s parting words included the command to “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19a) A practical “rule of thumb” for every student of God’s word: whenever you encounter the word therefore, find out what it is there for. In this case, it is there because of the statement of fact just given previously by the Lord: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” (v.19) A weighty statement indeed!
You cannot make disciples if you are not a disciple yourself. This means having a right relationship with Jesus above all else. Humbly place yourself under His rightful authority (you will need to do this throughout each day). Believe that He is able to save, for salvation is the supernatural work of the Lord. These things apply to every situation you will face. Now you are free to show the mercy that the Lord expects of His true disciple. When you do this, you are an instrument in His hand, helping to reveal the great heart of our Heavenly Father. The mission of Jesus was to reveal the true character of His Father in a hurting world that misunderstood God. Remember His prayer, whose high priestly ministry on our behalf is still in session:
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word…” John 17:17-20