We live in a society marked by extreme inequality between the rich and the poor. The rich have better chances in life, having access to greater facilities and resources. Selfishness is a growing concern among the inhabitants of our society.
In Luke 10:25-37 Jesus gives the parable of the good Samaritan.
The Samaritans hated Jews and these two groups of people would not have necessarily assisted each other. Jesus uses this relationship to explain the importance of mercy.
It was the Samaritan who served the man who had fallen among thugs.
Mercy changes the outlook of society. Everyone, whether rich or poor, is able to exercise mercy. God appeals to humanity through his acts of mercy.
Society has reacted to life challenges through mercilessness. This can, however, only cause bitterness and breed vengefulness.
The Bible says that blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy. As the good Samaritan showed mercy with what he had, will you choose to show mercy with what you have?
Mercy is not an outcome of wealth and excess resources. It is a choice we need to make in our lives.
Will we choose to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless? Are we also going to choose to advocate for those who have no voice in our society, teach the less knowledgeable, and patiently give other people another chance?
God spoke to Israel from the mercy seat. Will we choose mercy in our society? Only mercy will rewrite lives.
- Grace Mufara is overseer of the Covenant Apostolic Church, Virginia.
