Blessed Are The Merciful

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” (Matthew 5:7)

The “virus” has been with us long enough so that most of us are acquainted with its victims.  Some have been sickened by it, some have lost loved ones, close friends, jobs, businesses and hope. 

Once when Jesus was leaving the city of Jericho a blind man named Bartimaeus called out, “Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me” and “let me recover my sight” (Mark 10:46-52).  I am struck by how Jesus stopped and went out of his way to engage the man, to show mercy to him by meeting his request, his need. Mercy is always an intentional act. 

The conditions for being merciful are wonderful right now! Opportunities abound! Many of us know a “Bartimaeus” who needs mercy. Maybe you are one? Cry out to Jesus for mercy, He will hear you and stop and meet your need. He said he would. (John 16:23-24).  Then go and show mercy to your Bartimaeus.