21 July 2024

THE STRENGTH OF MERCY

For today's family worship, Sunday 21 July 2024, I feel in my heart to share with you a thought which has as its key verse:
Psalm 62:11-12 (NIV)

“One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: “Power belongs to you, God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love”; and, “You reward everyone according to what they have done.”

Psalm 62 is a song of deep trust in God, where the psalmist finds refuge in his power and mercy. In particular, verses 11-12 offer a valuable message about the nature of God and our relationship with him.
Verse 11 clearly states, “God has spoken once, twice have I heard this, that the power belongs to God.” This statement leaves no doubt about the absolute sovereignty of God. He is the creator and lord of all, the one who holds supreme power.
However, God's power is not exercised in a tyrannical or oppressive manner. Immediately afterwards, the psalmist adds: "mercy belongs to you too, O Lord". God's power is inseparably linked to his mercy. He is a just God who rewards good deeds, but he is also a compassionate God who forgives and offers redemption to those who repent.
The second part of verse 12 clarifies how God exercises his justice and mercy: "for you will repay each one according to his deeds." This means that God is not indifferent to our choices. He observes our actions and, in the end, he will judge us righteously.
The verses of Psalm 62 invite us to reflect on our relationship with God. Do we recognize his power and sovereignty? Do we believe in his mercy and justice? How do we respond to his words with our actions?

This morning we want to turn to God together and say: Lord God, we thank you for your immense power and mercy. We recognize that you are our Creator and Lord, and that only in you can we find true refuge and salvation. Help us to live a life in accordance with your will, following your teachings with love and faithfulness. Forgive our sins and give us the strength to persevere in faith. May your mercy be always present in our lives, guiding us towards eternal life. In the Name of Jesus... Amen!
With love, Ivano Salerno