"Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy."

Showing kindness and forgiveness to someone when you have the right to do the opposite does not come natural. The Lord commands and conditional promise is meant for the supernatural. It is easier to be kind to those whom we like, or we find pitiful. But God expects us to be merciful. It is to be part of our character, not just an action we selectively act out.

Today, while teaching, I had this moment of anger. I just got irritated. I wanted to shouted at them and put them down. But I know it will hurt their feelings and, by His grace, I didn't. I was trying my best to get a few students to pay attention yet wanting to give them 'face', but they just keep talking and did not realise what I was trying to do. What should I do? I decided that I will have to talk to one of them. I had to point out to her my frustration and she needs to improve. But i will say in with all the love I can muster. Merciful is not being weak or condoning but knowing how to act out the love we have for the person. Showing love to people who may seem to be the least deserving according to how our Lord loved us while we were aginst Him.

Lord, help me to be merciful. In moments when I fail, be merciful to your sinner servant. Amen