This Gospel reading challenges our perspective of mercy and those deserving of mercy. The
passage shows us how Jesus was mocked and taunted on three accounts at the time of his crucifixion. Jesus was called to demonstrate his power to save himself to affirm his identity as the “Messiah of God”, the “chosen one”, and “King of the Jews”. Little did these leaders, soldiers and criminals know that they were pronouncing the Christian truths about Jesus, that salvation takes place through the cross and that the crucifixion was integral to this..
“Mercy” is derived from the Latin word merced or merced, which means “price paid”. Mercy
has the connotation of forgiveness, compassion and kindness. It is often referred to as the compassionate treatment of one in distress or as the compassionate behaviour of one in power showing leniency. Biblically, mercy relates to forgiveness or withholding punishment. Jesus shows mercy for those suffering through healing, comfort, care and love. He acts with compassion and with mercy. Mercy and compassion go hand in hand. Mercy is a fruit of compassion, a gift from a compassionate person given
to alleviate suffering, the action associated with compassion.
What does it mean to have mercy or be merciful?
What does mercy look like? Mercy includes kindness and leniency; it acts gently from a position of influence and power and is inclusive. Reserving judgement, watching your words, alleviating suffering and acting humbly are all acts of mercy, the mercy of forgiveness, kindness, compassion and grace.
Today I invite you to reflect on the word “mercy”. What is your definition and perception of mercy? How have you been merciful or shown mercy? How has God been merciful to you?
