Mercy

1 a :  compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power; 
b :  imprisonment rather than death imposed as penalty for first-degree murder
2 a :  a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion
b :  a fortunate circumstance
3 :  compassionate treatment of those in distress 

I don't see myself as having power over other people. I see myself as weak and small. The one needing mercy, and it is a blessing that God provides for me, because my actions and thoughts beg for His mercy daily.

As a recipient of His mercy I want to extend it to others, but how do I know when I'm being merciful or when I'm just being a door mat? 

One of the basic tenants of abuse recovery is self-care. Honoring me for who I am. Not being anybody's door mat anymore. How do I line all of that up with extending mercy?

And that's the problem I'm left with. How to be merciful. And I don't have an answer I'm content with so far.

Compassionate  treatment of those in distress -- that's what I want to offer.

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

Matt. 5:7 

linking up with 5 Minute Friday

Day 7 of 31

God of peace, dawn reminds us that your mercies are new every morning. You have been merciful to us despite our sin. Teach us such mercy. Open our eyes to see the violence we condone with our silences and with our consumption. We give thanks that repentance is the beginning of true conversion. Amen.  -- Common Prayer

And I think about mercy and forgiveness. These gifts bestowed on me, that I have the opportunity to bestow on others.

And then I think of "the violence we condone with our silences", and I know that silence is not the answer. To speak is the only way to teach and lead and show.

And so I speak.

And I work on understanding appropriate anger, and how to display it, while still offering mercy and forgiveness.

And it is a big calling. 

And I see the grace and beauty of not walking this path alone.


linking up with Lisa-Jo and Ann Voskamp