I Desire Mercy…

Oct 24, 2010 by Travis

These words have been ringing over and over in my mind for the past week… “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.”

I have been provoked over and over again as we work our way through the Beatitudes. It has been a constant reminder that I must be desperate for God. Mercy is no different. As I reflect on what God has done for me, I can’t help but want to go and show that same grace and mercy to others around me. Today as we heard the little kids sing “He loves us – Oh how He loves us!” it was easy to focus on God’s grace.

I think the problem is that I can easily forget what God has done and then quickly begin to judge others around me rather than love them. I begin to compare my works or my level of commitment with theirs. These words of Christ help me re-focus…

“But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness.”

Justice, Mercy, & Faithfulness… When I focus on these things instead of my “sacrifices” I treat people like I should.

What helps you to love rather than judge?