Consequences and Mercy

Scripture: "We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." (Luke 23:41)

Observation: For every action, there is a reaction. The consequences of my sins should be death and separation from God. And yet, this man, beloved Jesus, died so that I may continue my life with God. It's the ultimate showing of love and mercy.

Application: If I can show mercy on those that wrong me, I can be a better person and better Christian. I have a hard time letting things go right away, and I tend to let it stew until I finally get over it. If I try to show mercy immediately, won't it only benefit me in the long run? Why do I even let Mr. Mean Co-worker get to me? Although his deeds deserve my utmost anger and resentment, what benefit does it serve to stay upset? The bottom line is that he is still one of God's creations, just like me. God loves him, just like He loves me too. If God is merciful to him, shouldn't I be also? It's a tough pill to swallow, considering that I dislike him so much, but it's one I should take if I want this "malady" to get better. It may never go away, but at least it wouldn't be such a nuisance. (God doesn't expect to me to like everyone, does He?)

Prayer: Lord, I have such a hard time dealing with Mr. Mean Co-worker. He has so many bad qualities! (Honestly, I have yet to see any redeeming ones! Seriously!) But I hope that I can get past all of that and just be reminded that even he is someone You love. You have shown mercy on me, and I hope I can show mercy on him when he's being a punk. I cannot change him and his bad attitude, but I can change my attitude toward him. But I need You to help me with that! The next time he's being a jerk, please bestow peace onto me so that I show him mercy immediately. Amen.