"Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” - Matthew 9:13
This text has been sitting with me for well over a year now.
Mercy.
It is a rare commodity these days, sadly, even amongst the people of God. And yet, it is a vital part of our calling as disciples of Jesus Christ. Too often I think we allow ourselves to get pulled into the rhetoric of the world around us.
And the world has had plenty to say recently, about a variety of issues. And let me be clear: as disciples of Jesus Christ, we cannot excuse ourselves from the conversation. However, we have to live in the tension of any issue. And we do that be leading with love, for all people. Abundant mercy for all people.
Don't get trapped in binary dialog. Don't lose the ability to speak with nuance and care. Do everything in your power to speak peace into hostile situations. Do not give into the temptation of righteous hate.
There will be plenty of opportunity to make enemies in the next month. This election cycle, like all election cycles, will test our patience. It will cause disagreement, frustration, and anger. Live in that tension. Live with love, with mercy. Don't run from the tension. Don't give into it, either.
I pray that in the midst of what is, undeniably, a very important election, we wouldn't forget the value of mercy.
Pray for peace. Pray for wisdom.