The Foundation of Our Faith: Embracing God's Mercy

As we embark on a new year, it is important to remember that everything we receive from God as believers in Jesus is purely an act of mercy. Whether we experience pleasure or pain, it is all a result of God's mercy towards us. This fundamental truth is the reason why Christ came into the world, so that we may glorify God for His mercy (Romans 15:9).

The concept of mercy is deeply rooted in our faith. We are born again according to God's great mercy (1 Peter 1:3). We pray daily for mercy (Hebrews 4:16), and we eagerly await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life (Jude 1:21). It is through the Lord's mercy that we are able to trust and have faith in Him (1 Corinthians 7:25).

But what about our faith? Do we need to have great faith in order to receive God's mercy? In Luke 17:5–6, the apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith. In response, Jesus tells them that even a small amount of faith, like a grain of mustard seed, is enough to tap into God's power. It is not the strength or quantity of our faith that uproots trees, but rather God's power working through our faith.

This means that the smallest amount of faith that connects us with Christ is sufficient to access all that we need from Him. We don't need to worry about the size of our faith, because it is God who ultimately uproots trees, not us. Therefore, we can have confidence that even the smallest amount of faith will engage enough of God's power for all our needs.

But what about our obedience? When we successfully obey the Lord, do we move beyond the need for His mercy? Jesus addresses this question in Luke 17:7–10 with a parable about a servant. The servant's obedience to his master's commands does not earn him special treatment or exemption from his duties. Instead, he continues to serve his master, recognizing that he is an unworthy servant who has only done what was required of him.

This parable teaches us that even when we have done all that we were commanded, we are still unworthy servants who are completely dependent on God's mercy. Our obedience does not elevate us to a position where we no longer need His mercy; rather, it reminds us of our constant need for His grace and mercy in our lives.

Therefore, whether we have great faith or flawless obedience, we are always recipients of God's mercy. We can never rise above the status of beneficiaries of His mercy, and we should humbly rejoice in this truth. Our entire Christian life and ministry are built on the foundation of God's mercy, and it is through His mercy that we are able to glorify Him.

As we reflect on this truth, let us remember that our faith and obedience do not earn us God's mercy. It is a gift freely given by our loving Father. We should not boast in our own strength or accomplishments, but rather humble ourselves and give all glory to God for His mercy.

In conclusion, as we begin this new year, let us embrace the reality that all we will receive from God is mercy. Whether we experience pleasure or pain, it is all a result of His mercy towards us. We should not strive to have great faith or flawless obedience in order to earn His mercy, but rather trust in His abundant grace. May we always remember that we are unworthy servants who are completely dependent on God's mercy, and may we continually rejoice and give glory to Him for His mercy in our lives.