Written in Liberty, MO,
Nov 11, 2024

Heb 4:16, Matt 6:8-15,
Ps 139:4, 2 Cor 1:3-4

“Mercy,” much like “grace,” is an oft-overlooked, under-appreciated concept. We have a habit of simplifying both to mean merely forgiveness, but that’s just scratching the surface of these profound traits of our Lord. Beyond forgiveness, mercy means to relieve suffering, to give comfort and to meet needs.

I’ve learned that “Have mercy, Lord,” is often the only prayer I require. Scripture promises God knows our needs and hears our prayers. I believe God has better problem solving skills than I do, a greater vision, a better imagination and resources I cannot fathom. I rarely feel the need to pray for specific outcomes nowadays because God’s solutions are far greater than mine. Whatever need, person or situation I feel lead to pray for, I often do so with the simplest prayer of “Have mercy, Lord,” and he does.