Mercy Begets Mercy

Scripture: The two angels entered Sodom in the evening as Lot was sitting at Sodom’s gate. When Lot saw them, he got up to meet them. He bowed with his face to the ground and said, “My lords, turn aside to your servant’s house, wash your feet, and spend the night. Then you can get up early and go on your way.” “No,” they said. “We would rather spend the night in the square.” But he urged them so strongly that they followed him and went into his house. He prepared a feast and baked unleavened bread for them, and they ate. Genesis 19:1-3

Observation: Abraham had just convinced God to evaluate Sodom and spare it if he finds 10 righteous men there. The angels find only one, Lot. However, they don't directly seek him out, but rather Lot invites them into his home. Even when they resist, Lot strongly engages them and convinces them to stay in his house and relax over dinner.

As a result, Lot and his two daughters will be the only three individuals who survive the destruction of the city. Lot is shown mercy because he shows mercy to these strangers. The angels did NOT need Lot's assistance and protection - they later show they were very capable of taking care of themselves even against a violent mob - but Lot went beyond a simple offer of assistance to show caring to two strangers. For this alone his life was spared.

Application: In the new testament reading earlier this week, Jesus himself says that the merciful are blessed because they will be shown mercy. Lot is a direct example of that principle. So in what ways am I showing kindness and mercy to others so that I may receive God's mercies every day? Perhaps in my giving, though that is not possibly true since my giving is not out of what I have but simply returning to God what is already his. I sometimes try to be kind and forgiving at work, though these are by human standards of today's culture and not likely at the level of true mercy by kingdom standards.

There is room for me to improve how I treat others, in the manner I would want to be treated. I continue to need growth in the area of kindness and patience and mercy. Lot is a great example of why that would pay off personally, though I would love to get to the point where I behave better simply as an outpouring of God's love through me.

Prayer: Lord, may I be closer to you in the actions of my life, especially those actions directed toward others. I do desire to be your instrument of love and kindness and mercy. Thank you for your love. Amen.