Here At The Cross - MERCY!

March 20, 2009 Reflection

Because of the mercy of the cross, you and I have received grace, mercy, and forgiveness, so that we are set free from the tyranny of our sin, and are liberated to live a new life in Christ. It’s very good news – but it is only half of the story.

I believe that, while there are no pre-conditions to receiving the mercy and grace of Jesus, there are expectations . On the cross, Jesus didn’t lavish his mercy and grace on us simply for our benefit. The Mercy of the Cross should inspire us to do as Jesus did – to in turn show mercy and grace to others. Just as Jesus forgave all those who had harmed him, you and I are to show those who may have harmed us mercy and grace, as well. It is the least we can do.

As those who have received the mercy of the cross of Jesus, we are morally bound to extend that same grace, mercy and forgiveness to others. We are to be as generous to others as God has been generous to us. As it says in Ephesians 4:32: “be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” In fact, there is a direct relationship between receiving and granting forgiveness. In the prayer our Lord taught us to pray which we recite every Sunday, we say “forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” - In other words: “Forgive us our sins – to the same extent that we forgive others.” Thanks to the cross of Jesus, we are freed to forgive others in Jesus Name, and we are expected to do just that.

Yes, we are morally bound to forgive others. It is our duty – our obligation – if we want to claim the mercy of the cross for ourselves.