Choosing Mercy: Lessons from Jesus on Mother's Day
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone, and Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mums out there. Today, we have a special gift for you, and Pastor Brett will let you know how to receive it after we delve into the Word of God. We're continuing our series called "The Red Letters," focusing on the words of Jesus. These words are often highlighted in red in some Bibles, not because they are more important than other scriptures, but to signify that these are the direct words of Jesus. Today, we will explore a moment in Jesus' life that exemplifies mercy, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Jesus said many things that resonate beyond the church walls. For instance, in Matthew 22:39, He said, "Love your neighbor as yourself," and in Luke 11:28, He mentioned that those who hear the Word of God and put it into practice are blessed. The Greek word for blessed, "makarios," means to be fortunate, well-off, or happy. If we want to experience these blessings, we must follow God's instructions, as He knows the best path for our lives.
On this Mother's Day, I want to focus on a poignant moment between Jesus and His mother, Mary, while He was on the cross. Despite the excruciating pain and humiliation He was enduring, Jesus showed mercy and compassion. In John 19:26-27, Jesus, seeing His mother and the disciple He loved, said, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." This act of mercy in such a dire moment is a powerful lesson for us all.
Jesus had every reason to be angry, offended, and vengeful. He was innocent, yet He was mocked, beaten, and crucified. However, instead of seeking revenge, He chose to show mercy. In Luke 23:34, Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing," even as the soldiers gambled for His clothes. This ultimate act of mercy teaches us that we, too, can choose mercy in our moments of pain and offense.
Now, let's bring this closer to home. Sometimes, it's easier to show mercy to strangers than to our own family members. On a typical Sunday morning, getting everyone ready for church can be chaotic and stressful. Yet, when we arrive at church, we put on a happy face and greet everyone warmly. This contrast highlights how challenging it can be to show mercy to those closest to us.
To illustrate this, we did a little quiz to see how merciful we are with our family members. The questions ranged from how we react when someone in our family makes the same mistake repeatedly to how we handle situations when someone in our family gets a lot of attention. The results were eye-opening, revealing that showing mercy within the family can be quite challenging.
So, what does mercy look like, feel like, and sound like in your context? Whether it's with family, friends, or strangers, showing mercy requires a conscious effort. It's not always easy, but it's essential. Jesus showed mercy to those who didn't deserve it, and we can do the same. Mercy is often a daily practice, and it requires a mindset and conviction rooted in love and compassion.
To help us understand this better, we invited some amazing mums from our church to share their experiences. They spoke about times when they chose mercy, even when it wasn't deserved. Their stories highlighted the importance of staying level-headed and representing Jesus in every situation. Showing mercy not only impacts others but also transforms us, giving us a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of God's love.
In conclusion, if we want to live a fortunate, well-off, and happy life, we must choose mercy in every moment, just as Jesus did. Let us pray for the strength and wisdom to show mercy, even in the most challenging circumstances.
### Key Takeaways
1. Mercy in the Moment: Jesus exemplified mercy even in His most painful moments on the cross. Despite being innocent and enduring immense suffering, He chose to show compassion to His mother and forgiveness to His persecutors. This teaches us that we can choose mercy, even when it seems impossible. [06:09]
2. Daily Practice of Mercy: Mercy is not a one-time act but a daily practice. Just as Jesus continually showed mercy, we must also make it a part of our daily lives. This requires a mindset and conviction rooted in love and compassion, enabling us to respond with mercy even when we are hurt or offended. [10:55]
3. Mercy Within the Family: Showing mercy to family members can be more challenging than showing it to strangers. The daily interactions and close relationships often test our patience and compassion. However, Jesus' example of showing mercy to His mother while on the cross reminds us that our family deserves our mercy and compassion just as much as anyone else. [28:26]
4. Mercy Transforms Us: When we choose to show mercy, it not only impacts those around us but also transforms us. It gives us a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of God's love. By practicing mercy, we become more like Jesus, reflecting His love and compassion in our daily lives. [22:19]
5. Involving Others in Mercy: Jesus brought others into the journey of mercy, as seen when He entrusted His mother to the disciple John. We, too, can involve others in acts of mercy, creating a community that supports and uplifts each other. This collective effort strengthens our ability to show mercy and spreads God's love more effectively. [25:12]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:18] - Happy Mother's Day
3. [01:59] - The Red Letters Series
4. [02:45] - Blessed by Hearing and Doing
5. [03:27] - Following God's Instructions
6. [04:31] - Jesus' Moment on the Cross
7. [05:27] - Jesus' Compassion for His Mother
8. [06:09] - Mercy in the Moment
9. [07:54] - Jesus' Forgiveness on the Cross
10. [09:28] - Showing Mercy in Difficult Moments
11. [10:55] - Daily Practice of Mercy
12. [12:22] - Special Mother's Day Segment
13. [16:06] - Stories of Mercy from Mums
14. [22:19] - Impact of Showing Mercy
15. [25:12] - Involving Others in Mercy
16. [28:26] - Mercy Within the Family
17. [29:03] - Family Mercy Quiz
18. [30:14] - Reflecting on Family Mercy
19. [31:53] - What Does Mercy Look Like?
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 19:26-27 (NIV): "When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, 'Woman, here is your son,' and to the disciple, 'Here is your mother.' From that time on, this disciple took her into his home."
2. Luke 23:34 (NIV): "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots."
3. Matthew 22:39 (NIV): "And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
### Observation Questions
1. What did Jesus say to His mother and the disciple He loved while He was on the cross? (John 19:26-27)
2. How did Jesus respond to those who were crucifying Him, according to Luke 23:34?
3. What is the significance of the Greek word "makarios" as mentioned in the sermon? [02:45]
4. How does Jesus' command in Matthew 22:39 relate to the concept of mercy discussed in the sermon?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose to show mercy to His mother and the disciple even while He was suffering on the cross? [06:09]
2. How does Jesus' plea for forgiveness for His persecutors in Luke 23:34 challenge our natural responses to being wronged? [07:54]
3. In what ways does the concept of "makarios" (being fortunate, well-off, or happy) connect to the practice of showing mercy? [02:45]
4. How can the principle of "loving your neighbor as yourself" be applied in situations where showing mercy is difficult?
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent moment when you were hurt or offended. How did you respond, and how might you have responded differently if you had chosen mercy? [09:28]
2. Think about a family member who often tests your patience. What specific steps can you take to show them mercy this week? [28:26]
3. Jesus showed mercy even to those who were actively harming Him. Is there someone in your life who you find it hard to forgive? What can you do to start the process of showing them mercy? [07:54]
4. How can you make the practice of showing mercy a daily habit? What mindset or conviction do you need to cultivate to make this easier? [10:55]
5. Discuss a time when you chose to show mercy to someone who didn't deserve it. How did it impact you and the other person involved? [12:22]
6. How can you involve others in acts of mercy, similar to how Jesus entrusted His mother to the disciple John? What are some practical ways to create a community of mercy? [25:12]
7. Reflect on the "Family Mercy Quiz" from the sermon. Which question challenged you the most, and what can you do to improve in that area? [30:14]
Devotional
Day 1: Mercy in the Moment
Jesus exemplified mercy even in His most painful moments on the cross. Despite being innocent and enduring immense suffering, He chose to show compassion to His mother and forgiveness to His persecutors. This teaches us that we can choose mercy, even when it seems impossible. Jesus' act of mercy towards His mother, Mary, and the disciple John, as well as His plea for forgiveness for those who crucified Him, are powerful reminders of the depth of His love and compassion. In our own lives, we often face situations where showing mercy feels like the hardest choice. However, Jesus' example encourages us to rise above our pain and choose mercy, even when it seems beyond our capacity.
In John 19:26-27, Jesus, seeing His mother and the disciple He loved, said, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." This act of mercy in such a dire moment is a powerful lesson for us all. Similarly, in Luke 23:34, Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing," even as the soldiers gambled for His clothes. These ultimate acts of mercy teach us that we, too, can choose mercy in our moments of pain and offense. [06:09]
Isaiah 53:7 (ESV): "He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth."
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you felt wronged or hurt. How can you choose to show mercy in that situation today?
Day 2: Daily Practice of Mercy
Mercy is not a one-time act but a daily practice. Just as Jesus continually showed mercy, we must also make it a part of our daily lives. This requires a mindset and conviction rooted in love and compassion, enabling us to respond with mercy even when we are hurt or offended. Practicing mercy daily means being intentional about our actions and reactions, especially in challenging circumstances. It involves a conscious effort to embody the love and compassion that Jesus demonstrated throughout His life.
In Luke 11:28, Jesus mentioned that those who hear the Word of God and put it into practice are blessed. The Greek word for blessed, "makarios," means to be fortunate, well-off, or happy. If we want to experience these blessings, we must follow God's instructions, as He knows the best path for our lives. By making mercy a daily practice, we align ourselves with God's will and open our hearts to the transformative power of His love. [10:55]
Micah 6:8 (ESV): "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Reflection: Identify one specific way you can practice mercy today, whether it's through a kind word, a forgiving heart, or a compassionate action.
Day 3: Mercy Within the Family
Showing mercy to family members can be more challenging than showing it to strangers. The daily interactions and close relationships often test our patience and compassion. However, Jesus' example of showing mercy to His mother while on the cross reminds us that our family deserves our mercy and compassion just as much as anyone else. Family dynamics can be complex, and it's easy to take our loved ones for granted or to react harshly in moments of frustration. Yet, these are the very moments when mercy is most needed.
On a typical Sunday morning, getting everyone ready for church can be chaotic and stressful. Yet, when we arrive at church, we put on a happy face and greet everyone warmly. This contrast highlights how challenging it can be to show mercy to those closest to us. By consciously choosing to show mercy within our families, we create an environment of love and understanding that reflects Jesus' teachings. [28:26]
Colossians 3:13 (ESV): "Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."
Reflection: Think about a recent conflict or tension within your family. How can you show mercy and bring healing to that situation today?
Day 4: Mercy Transforms Us
When we choose to show mercy, it not only impacts those around us but also transforms us. It gives us a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of God's love. By practicing mercy, we become more like Jesus, reflecting His love and compassion in our daily lives. Mercy has the power to change our hearts, making us more empathetic and compassionate individuals. It allows us to see others through the lens of God's love and to respond with grace and kindness.
The stories shared by the mums in the church highlighted the importance of staying level-headed and representing Jesus in every situation. Showing mercy not only impacts others but also transforms us, giving us a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of God's love. As we practice mercy, we grow in our faith and become more attuned to the needs of those around us. [22:19]
James 2:13 (ESV): "For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when showing mercy transformed a situation or relationship in your life. How did it change you and the other person involved?
Day 5: Involving Others in Mercy
Jesus brought others into the journey of mercy, as seen when He entrusted His mother to the disciple John. We, too, can involve others in acts of mercy, creating a community that supports and uplifts each other. This collective effort strengthens our ability to show mercy and spreads God's love more effectively. Involving others in acts of mercy can create a ripple effect, inspiring more people to practice compassion and kindness in their own lives.
By inviting others to join us in showing mercy, we build a supportive community that reflects the love of Christ. This can be as simple as encouraging a friend to forgive someone or organizing a group to help those in need. When we work together to show mercy, we amplify its impact and create a culture of compassion and understanding. [25:12]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Think of a way you can involve someone else in an act of mercy today. How can you encourage and support each other in showing compassion and kindness?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Jesus said, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Right? You don't have to be a follower of Jesus to know these sayings. Some of the things that Jesus said go certainly beyond the voice of the pulpit." [02:45]
2. "Who wants to be happy? Who wants to be fortunate? Just things seem to go your way. Who wants to be well off in life? Right? Man, I want to be that. Right? Well, Jesus is saying, hey, if you want to be fortunate, well off, if you want to be happy, right, then hear the word of God and put it into practice." [03:27]
3. "If you want to live a fortunate, well-off, and happy life, then what we all need to do, me and you, all of us together, in every moment that we find ourselves in, even in the moments that hurt the most, we, choose mercy." [42:05]
4. "Sometimes I feel it's harder to actually show mercy to your family. I think sometimes it's easy to show mercy to strangers and the people that aren't in your family. Sometimes it's harder to show mercy to those who are actually your family, your family members." [29:03]
5. "When someone in my family keeps making the same mistakes over and over do I a) get irritated and angry at them or b) graciously forgive them and pray for them? What do you do? Which one do you do? How is your mercy right now?" [30:14]
### Quotes for Members
1. "If there was one moment in Jesus's life where he could have got revenge, if there was one moment in Jesus's life where he could have blown up over the top angry, if there was one moment in Jesus's life where he could have got upset and offended with what was happening, if there was one moment where he could have felt hurt, where he could have had a moment of selfishness, where he could have chosen to get his own way, I think this is it." [06:09]
2. "In this moment of being treated unfairly, he chooses in this moment to choose compassion and mercy. Not only does he show it to his mum, right? We can see here in Luke 23, 34, he actually shows it actually to the people who are doing these things to him. Jesus said, Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing, right? Forgive them." [07:54]
3. "Do you have the emotional capacity, just as Jesus did, to show mercy to other people, just as Jesus showed mercy to other people, even if they still go on offending you?" [09:28]
4. "The truth is that we are to show mercy, right? Just as Jesus did to us. Jesus on the cross showed you mercy. We had that picture up before. Who put Jesus on the cross? Was it the Romans? Was it the Jewish establishment? Who put Jesus on the cross? I would say this. That his father threw a plan of rescuing us from ourselves. That's what put Jesus on the cross. We did." [39:23]
5. "Point number one is this, is that we can show mercy to those who don't deserve it. And like what I said, that key word is can. This is your choice. Jesus chose, and that's why we're here. In that moment, to give compassion and mercy to his mum. In that moment, he chose it. And his enemies, well, supposed enemies, chose it." [12:22]
6. "Mercy is sometimes a daily practice. Usually, I think, it's a daily practice, and what, you know, we're hearing you guys talk about this decision that you made, and in this moment, where you could have been offended and should have been offended, but you chose mercy. What kind of mindset and conviction did you need to have on the inside, already there, in order to make that decision?" [25:12]
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