The Big Idea of this study is our need to be shown mercy and our need to be merciful. Like forgiveness it is one of the key characteristics of Kingdom of God living.

As we approach Easter it is important to remember that there is more going on than meets the eye. We tend to focus on the details of the event and miss the big picture. This in fact is the greatest moment in history. It culminates God’s grand plan to redeem humankind from the dastardly effects of the Fall in early Genesis. This is what the Old Testament stories have been building toward.  The Law, the Prophets, the Wisdom Literature are all pointing in this direction.

The Crucifixion and Resurrection set in stark contrast the ways of God with the ways of humankind. We see the way the world deals with its problems through the abuse of power, lies and injustice. In Jesus we see how God responds to the challenges of dealing with the human condition with love, forgiveness and mercy.

Mercy is one of the characteristics of the Kingdom of God that is in sharp contrast in the Easter event.  While Jesus receives anything but mercy during his trial and crucifixion, it all culminates in mercy being offered for all.  “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Cor. 5:21)

Our text this week emphasizes the reciprocal nature of mercy. Like forgiveness, what goes around, comes around. Those who give mercy, receive mercy. And mercy is an amazing thing. It is the withholding of punitive consequences to the guilty offender. It is exactly what Jesus has done for us on the cross. There is something good and beautiful about mercy. Like forgiveness, it releases us from the bondage of things that have been done to harm us. In contrast, intolerance and resentment will eat us up. It is far better to live the Jesus way.

Questions for Discussion:

1.  At several points during the Passion Narrative (The Easter Story) the Gospel writers contrast the attitudes of the enemies of Jesus with Jesus’ attitudes and actions. Where do you see mercy, intolerance and resentment reflected in the story?

2.  How and why is mercy less passive than the previous beatitudes?

3.  Discuss other examples of mercy in the Old Testament narrative. Why is it so often demonstrated in the history of Israel?

4.  Why is showing mercy difficult?

5.  Compare the reciprocal nature of both mercy and forgiveness.

6.  Discuss other mercy busters that you have experienced.

7.  In what ways can you demonstrate mercy in your family, work, and social life?

8.  Discuss St. Augustine’s quote: “Trust Your Past to God’s Mercy, Your Present to His Love and the Future to His Providence.”