Thursday, November 28, 2013

Today I'm Most Thankful For...

Mercy

Last night I researched the word "thanks" in the Bible and found that of all the phrases for giving thanks to God, 10 times we're told to "give thanks unto the Lord for His mercy endures forever."

I wondered about that. Why the emphasis on giving thanks for His mercy?

Perhaps because as humans we tend to think we've made it to this point in our lives through our own efforts. We've done this or that to become the person we are today. In fact, on Thanksgiving every year we often focus on being thankful for: family, friends, health, and other tangible blessings.

But for the most part, if it weren't for His mercy throughout our lives, none of us would be here.

What is "mercy"?
  • compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power
  • the discretionary power of a judge to pardon someone or to mitigate punishment
  • an act of kindness, compassion, or favor
I've heard it described as "unmerited favor". Mercy is not something one earns. It is a gift.

So today, I'm thankful for His mercy that makes me able to be thankful for all the other blessings in my life.

Happy Thanksgiving everbody.

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