It is the abiding quality of long-term concern, the refusal to abandon human beings, the most central fact of God s existence. It includes frequent forgiveness and patience, but it also includes a persistent correction and re-establishment of decent human standards. God is absolutely realistic. God is merciful. Mercy creates meaning.
Mercy is long-term love applied to an immediate situation.
Sacrificial acts are not enjoyed or celebrated in their own right. They are simply an incident in the larger purpose of love and the persistent effort which love invites. Mercy is the personal investment of life that adds to human capital. It renews creation every moment that it occurs. Mercy is the kind of energy and effort that builds a family, a community, a school, a business, a city, a workforce, a world.