“Abundant Mercy”
A simple definition of mercy; compassion shown to an offender or not receiving what we deserve. The scripture teaches, we all sin and fall short of the glory of God and the wages of sin is death. Therefore every man, woman and child deserves to die and be separated from God forever. No one can live up to the standards of our Holy and perfect God and Creator.
I know most of you who are reading this already know this truth. But it is always great to be reminded of who we were without Jesus. In today’s scripture we are taught and reminded just how abundant God’s mercy is!
Ephesians 2:4-7
But God is so rich in mercy, and He loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) 6 For He raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. 7 So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of His grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all He has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus.
“BUT GOD” Two of the most powerful words in scripture. I absolutely love these passages of scripture. Many times when I find myself struggling I will read Ephesians chapter 1 and 2. It helps me to be reminded of who I was and what Christ did for me. These four scriptures we read today are packed full of God’s truth, let’s dig in.
The Apostle Paul begins with a transitional phrase, “but God.” The verses prior to these informs the readers of who they were without Jesus. But God is so rich in mercy and love even though we were sinners, separated from God and spiritually dead. God sent Jesus to die for each one of us. God then raised Christ from the dead giving each one of us the opportunity to be risen with Christ. Paul assures us it is only by the grace of God anyone can be saved. If you have placed you faith in Jesus Christ, you have been seated with Jesus in the heavenly realms. I don’t pretend to fully understand the complete meaning of that statement. But I do know our destiny has changed, this is not our home! Hallelujah!!
I want us to take a look at verse 7 for a minute. God abundantly pours His mercy out on His children. One of the reasons we see in this passage, God points to us so others will also experience His love and mercy. Yes, we become examples of all God has done through Christ Jesus. We become ministers of reconciliation pointing others to God’s abundant mercy and salvation. What a privilege and responsibility it is to be God’s partners here on earth!
In Christ, you have become a new creation. The old is gone and the new has come. Today, take time and give the Lord thanks and tell someone about His abundant mercy! Blessings!!
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