The Lodestar

This is an invitation to be like God, who is merciful. “Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; our God is merciful" (Psa 116:5). Moreover, Jesus quoted prophet Hosea (Greek version) to affirm that God “desire mercy, and not sacrifice” (Matt 9:13/Hosea 6:6).

Gregory of Nyssa (Christian theologian of the fourth century) said that the spiritual virtue of being merciful softens one’s soul since it is an act against cruelty. The more merciful we are, the less cruel we will be.

Those who receive mercy are obliged to be merciful. In the Bible, mercy is not just being kind to others and doing acts of charity but also wilfully forgiving others, just as God forgave us. Jesus illustrated this truth with the parable of the unjust servant (Matt 18:21—35). The master had written off the debts of this servant, but the forgiven servant was not willing to do that with those who owed him money but persecuted them. So, the master, angry at his action, asked, “And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ (Matt 18:33). The master ordered that he should be imprisoned till he paid all his debts.

Being merciful has a limit; we do not have to show mercy after the coming of Christ since no one needs the kindness of others. Christ “will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev 21:4). But those who failed to be merciful when their fellow beings cried for mercy will not receive the mercy of the Lord.

Take a moment to reflect: Who in your life needs mercy today? A kind word, a forgiving heart, a quiet act of compassion? Just as the Lord has been merciful to you, he calls you to extend that same mercy to others. Let mercy flow through your words and actions, softening your heart and shaping your soul in the likeness of Christ. Remember, mercy is not weakness—it is divine strength. Walk in it today, and you will find yourself walking with God.