Tough Mercy

James reiterates several times the idea that mercy “triumphs” (2:13) over judgment. What does that mean for someone whose weakness is judging rather than extending mercy? It’s a kick in the rear end.

 I often see people who have less than I. Do I show them kindness or do I look past it? This makes me uncomfortable… But perhaps I’m experiencing a Godly discomfort. At market one day, I had to decide whether to give money to someone who asked, saying she wanted to go visit her family in the hospital. Another time, a woman asked me to purchase items from her so she could take her son to the hospital for his stomach pains. A student asked for extra time to write an assignment since that person struggles. Where’s the line between mercy and judgment? When am I enabling something negative and calling it “mercy”? When am I “refusing to be naïve” or “sticking to the law” and crossing the line into judgment?

Jesus chose mercy to “the least of these” (Matt. 25) and spoke more sternly to those who judged. How do I choose mercy in those situations when there’s not a clear answer? When is mercy tough love? Perhaps in the difficult situations, the Holy Spirit leads and utter dependence on Him will guide me. The only thing I have settled is that a revelation of God’s mercy for me and for His people will propel me into showing mercy to others.

James 2:13 – “Mercy without judgment will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”