Mercy and Grace

One Sunday I was asked to share about my work with the pro-life movement at our church. During the presentation I mentioned that, "Those of you who know me, know that mercy is not one of my spiritual gifts." The rousing round of applause surprised even me.

But, knowing my limitations prevents me from taking on tasks which could lead to disaster. For example, there is no sensitive side of me when it comes to counseling. If you are doing something stupid I ask, "So, how's that working for you?" You have a complaint about your spouse? My advice is almost always, "Well, suck it up and get over it." I avoid the pastoral care ministry. The church appreciates that about me.

Though personally lacking much of the grace and mercy Christ has so graciously given me, even I cringe thinking about the implications of the psalmist's prayer in my daily reading today. "Let the heads of those who surround me be covered with the trouble their lips have caused."
Psalm 140:9

While mercy and grace may not be my top attributes, I am always thankful that the Lord does not give us what we deserve. Even I would hesitate to pray that our nation be covered with the trouble our lips have caused. Instead, my prayer is, "Lord have mercy on us." He is our only hope.