The Undeserving

"Do you know what mercy is?" I asked the sober-faced little girl who was sitting quietly on the sidelines, humbly accepting her due consequence for arguing with authority.  "I think it's when somebody gives you another chance, even though you don't deserve it," she replied.  Then, seeing that she knew full well she deserved what she was getting, I gave her mercy.  When we talked about the incident later, this same little girl experienced God's mercy for the first time.  And I was reminded that God's mercy is indeed for those who are most undeserving . . . and know that they are.  God cannot extend mercy to those who don't believe that they deserve His wrath.  Only humble hearts who acknowledge their wrongs can receive another chance with gratitude.

Do not remember the sins of my youth,

nor my transgressions;

According to Your mercy remember me,

for Your goodness' sake, O Lord.

Psalm 25:7