“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.”

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Scripture

 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)

Reflection

Our year in the Old Testament in Confirmation at Concordia is entitled “What Does the Old Testament Say About God?” (borrowing from the great theologian Claus Westermann). The Old Testament says many things about God. The one thing it says clearly and repeatedly is: “God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” To be merciful is to be like God. To be merciful is the closest thing to being “perfect.” Where Matthew writes, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect,” the Gospel writer Luke writes, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (compare Matthew 5:48 and Luke 6:36).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, In your mercy, make me merciful. Amen.