Mercy--Five Minute Friday

My brother used to introduce me to new games...like "mercy." In mercy, you lock fingers together and basically inflict such pain, driving the other person to his/her (always her) knees...until she shouts, "Mercy!!" Ha! Glad we grew out of that. Thanks, Geoff!

Now that I am older, I have a different appreciation for mercy. Webster says mercy is " kind or forgiving treatment of someone who could be treated harshly." We often bring harsh consequences on ourselves...sometimes we really deserve them, too. BUT (how I love that word! How God uses "BUT" as a turning point to change EVERYTHING!!!) an overarching theme of scripture is the mercy of God: "O give thanks unto the Lord: for He is good, for His mercy endureth forever" (Ps. 136:1).

What are examples of mercy? Mercies can be kindnesses, compassion, fortunate circumstances, and blessings. There's an old hymn that says:

"Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done."

So, here are some of mine:

1. Amazing husband and kids!
2. Kids all live pretty close.
3. Parents in great health and live close by.
4. School year started well and students are so nice!
5. Good friends.
6. Hearing restored with cochlear implant!!!!!!!
7. Good health.
8. Best country in the world!!

But some people are going through tougher times...and it's hard to figure out the mercy and blessings in that. To them, I offer a later stanza in this song:

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

May you see God's mercy in a fresh way today!