Daily Devotions
Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment
Reading for October 13th: Matthew 26
Weekly reading for October 11-17: James 1-5
So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
James 2:12-13
The law of liberty is James' designation for the law of Christ. Unlike the law of Moses, which could only bring us death (see Romans), the law of Christ offers us freedom and life. This law offers us forgiveness when we really deserve judgement.
So, James challenges us to speak and act as those who have received mercy instead of judgment. Our willingness to allow mercy to triumph over judgment is tested a thousand times a day. When we are frustrated with slow service at a restaurant, we must choose between mercy and judgment. When we have to deal with incompetence at work, we must choose between mercy and judgment. When family members continue to fail us either through neglect or laziness or even rebellion, we must choose between mercy and judgment.
James is encouraging us to default to mercy, not judgment. This is no the same as excusing sin. The law of Christ doesn't give us license to sin. However, it does offer a second chance. It offers patience and forbearance. That's what people need in life.
Father, remind us of your love and grace toward us. You have been so patient with us. Help us to extend the same mercy to others that you have shown so richly toward us.
