"It Was 100% My Fault" - by Rev. Weldon Bares

It was my fault. One hundred percent my fault.

I was at a 3-way stop, and I wasn’t paying full attention. The other driver was clearly at her stop sign before I was at mine. But I proceeded through the intersection before her. I just wasn’t paying full attention. Then I realized my error.

I so appreciate that she didn’t blast her horn at me, even though I was clearly in the wrong. I sheepishly waved and mouthed the words, “I’m sorry. My fault.” She only shook her head.

The driver that day was merciful and cut me some slack.

I am so thankful today for mercy. Chrysostom was a leader in the early church. He wrote these profound words: “Mercy imitates God and disappoints the devil.”

In “The Merchant of Venice,” Shakespeare wrote these profound words, “The quality of mercy is not strained. It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven upon the place beneath. It is twice blessed: It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.” (Act IV, Scene 1)

Mary Gauthier is a Grammy-nominated folk singer and songwriter from New Orleans. She sang: “We all could use a little mercy now. I know we don't deserve it, but we need it anyhow.”

Jesus said it like this, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)

A simple, but important reminder for us today. Let’s show some mercy today to someone.