Mercy, Not Sacrifice

"On hearing this, Jesus said, 'It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'[Hosea 6:6] For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Matthew 9:12-13

So many times, I hear from different people "God helps those who help themselves" and "nothing comes for free." But, how do these principles fit in with God's amazing grace? I love this passage because it reminds us that Jesus desires mercy, not sacrifice.

While we have sinned in overindulging ourselves in the past, God specifically reminds us in these verses that He sent His Son for sinners like us. Once again, Jesus' blood has saved us! While we can't keep on sinning, we can rest in the knowledge that God desires to have mercy on us. He can heal us, and there's nothing too awful we've done that prevents Him from loving us and wanting to be near us.

Know today that He loves you, wants to help you, and desires a relationship with you right where you're at! Rather than focusing on sacrifice, focus on His unending mercy and grace in your life. And praise Him for it!

Dear Jesus, we worship and adore You. Thank You for your ultimate sacrifice, that we can receive Your mercy. Lord, please forgive us - we have sinned! We are 'sick' and in need of a doctor - our great physician - to heal our bodies and make them the holy vessels they were meant to be. Please help us! We love You and praise You! You alone are worthy of our worship. In Jesus' name, AMEN!