The Treasure of Mercy

~~~ Hosea 6:1-6 ~~~ Psalm 51 ~~~ Luke 18:9-14 ~~~

 It is mercy I desire, and not sacrifice.

It does not matter how much you sacrifice for the Lord;
if you still let prejudice and hatred linger in your heart
 you are not returning to the Lord with your whole heart.
Is it not mercy we want from God?
We are made in his likeness
therefore we must learn how to extend his mercy.

...let us strive to know the LORD...

How can we strive to know the Lord if we refuse
 to show his mercy toward others?
Maybe this is the message of Lent...mercy...
not just mercy from God for yourself, but to let his mercy
emerge from within your own heart.

O God, be merciful to me a sinner.

His mercy is given freely to you.
His mercy is not for you to walk away
smugly with the knowledge of his mercy.

You have been given the treasure of mercy,
what will you do with it?

If today you hear his voice harden not your hearts.

Some treasures are not meant to be kept to yourself.
It takes a humble pouring out of oneself
 to show compassion and mercy.

His Blessings are more than enough to share.
~~~ Peace ~~~