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Mercy: Received and Shared (Matthew 5:7)
Jesus said that, when we are merciful, we will be shown mercy. It is a sign that we have already experienced the mercy of God. Having received His mercy, we can show mercy to others. As such, we will enjoy the fullness of His mercy at the end of our days, when we stand before…
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Ascension and Pentecost III. The Gospel of Forgiveness
One of the most important, and in many churches least emphasized, elements of Jesus’ post-resurrection teaching is the message of forgiveness. Yet, it is central to Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples, and it should be central to our message. As He prepared them for their forthcoming ministry, He said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If…
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God’s Righteousness and Justice. VII: Christ our Merciful and Righteous King
Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem reminds us that He comes in both righteousness and mercy. This perspective can guide us through Lent.
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God’s Righteousness and Justice. II: Justice and Mercy Together
God is righteous and just, but He is also merciful. These qualities often work together. He forgives our sins, but we might have to live with the consequences of our wrongdoing.
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Act, Speak, and Pray
Many years ago, when I was in seminary, I had several conversations with a retired Baptist minister. In one of our conversations, he offered this word of wisdom: “I refuse to pray any prayer unless I am willing to be the answer to that prayer.” Let us not use prayer as an excuse not to…