Published on 05/22/2008

What practical steps can you take today to offer mercy to the person who most needs it from you?

Next thing you know, Steve Jobs and Bill Gates will name children for each other. Today's Wall Street Journal reports the latest surprise in the world of corporate mergers: Samsung and LG Electronics are going to work together. They will cooperate on technology for transmitting and receiving digital TV to mobile devices. Samsung may buy components from LG. And the two electronics giants say that more engagements are in their future. South Korean newspapers are rejoicing in this "digital detente."

Such cooperation is more than good business. We're exploring Jesus' prescription for true happiness, focusing in recent days on his fifth Beatitude: "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" (Matthew 5:7). We've learned that mercy is not giving or getting what a person deserves. It is to forgive, to pardon, to refuse to punish. We should pardon those who have injured us to stop the cycle of pain, to position ourselves to receive forgiveness, to break the circle of revenge, and to demonstrate the love of Christ.

Now, how can you be merciful this morning? What practical steps can you take today to offer mercy to the person who most needs it from you?

First, admit the reality of your hurt. Name it honestly and specifically. Describe in words how you feel about it and the person who caused it. Verbalize even what you would like to do in revenge. Get your feelings out, as honestly as possible.

You may want to put them on paper. Write a letter to the one who hurt you, then tear it up. You may want to talk to a friend you trust, or a Christian counselor. Most of all, admit it to God. As someone said, "Tell God on them." Pour out your pain and hurt. You must admit the cancer exists before the surgeon can help you.

Second, ask God to help you pardon the one who hurt you. You are not expected to be "merciful" without Jesus' help. That's why these Beatitudes are addressed to believers, followers of Christ. Turn to the Holy Spirit who dwells in your heart and soul. Ask him for the power and pardon of God.

To be specific, ask your Father for the ability to see this person as he does. And to see yourself as God does, for both of you are redeemed sinners. Ask him to help you give to your enemy the mercy your Lord has given to you.

Who is your Samsung or LG right now? Let's continue tomorrow.