Article October 10, 2011 Issue

Living God’s mercy

Michael Shays

A while back, I decided to do a study of the concept of mercy. Out of this research came a better understanding of what mercy is and how I must live it. The first revelation was that mercy is not just forgiving, but giving. 

In meekness I saw I must treat my fellow man with charity, kindness, and compassion regardless of how he treats me. I must express humanity for those who are hurting and know that their hurt was not brought upon them by God, and therefore is an illusion that Love dissolves. Seeing their plight, I have prayerful work to do. 

I must be generous and philanthropic in promoting human welfare, giving what I am able. Instead of being judgmental or critical, I must have the mercy, grace, and faith to see all mankind in the spiritual light that truly defines them, and remember that on whomever my thoughts rest I am either practicing Science or not (see Mary Baker Eddy, The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 210). There is no in between.

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