In the “Sermon on the Mount,” Jesus describes people who are blessed in His kingdom, who are normally thought to be unfortunate in this world. Jesus mentions that some of the blessed people are those who are merciful people. Those who are merciful are caring and compassionate. They prefer forgiveness over punishment. These kinds of individuals are usually trusting and kind by nature. Often time, they get a raw deal when they treat other people so good. Usually, when you treat people better than they deserve, others think you are either naive or oblivious. People will even take advantage of you just because they think they can. It hurts when your kindness is rewarded with criticism and rejection. It especially hurts, when the rejection comes from those for whom you went out your way to bless. However, there is good news! Jesus calls these individuals blessed, and He will care for the merciful, even when others laugh at them.

Coming into Jesus’ kingdom is more than just going through the motions. Jesus needs to expand your capacity to show mercy to others as you grow to be more like  Christ. Jesus is saying don’t stop treating people better than they deserve, even if they turn against you. Your happiness in Jesus depends on your willingness to show mercy. Remember, blessed means happy. When you put mercy out there, Jesus promises that it will come back to you. You have to desire happiness by being merciful to others. Jesus says that mercy will boomerang back, and that He will treat you better than you deserve. So, be merciful. Don’t stop treating people well, regardless of how they treat you. You know what it’s like to be dogged out by people that you treated the best.  Unlike the world, the merciful will always receive mercy in Jesus’ kingdom. If you are merciful you will fully care for others. In return, you will be fully cared for. Jesus promises! In other words, Jesus will always take care of you, as you take care of others. Hallelujah!

Questions: Why do you think Jesus wants you to show mercy to people, even if they mistreat you?

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us mercy. Give us the compactly to treat others just like you treat us, even if they do not deserve it. We confess that we cannot do this without your help. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.