Divine Style
Originally scheduled for
December 13
Glory is to
God as style is to an artist, we are told. It is an eternal characteristic of
God that he shows us mercy – and does so in a style which befits the Almighty.
Consider the elements of His style of mercy:
First,
he is compassionate. Christ did not go to the Cross grudgingly, but
willingly. We did not earn the Cross; he freely gave it. He gave it to us out
of his great love and compassion. Indeed, he became man so that he might share
our passions – and we his.
Next,
he is kind. There are passages in the Old Testament which show the God of
wrath; there are passages which show the God of mercy. At the Cross we see the
kindness of God, for he died for the unworthy. If you are kind in feeding the
poor, how much more kindness is in the Cross?
Did
Christ go to the Cross with head held high, reminding one and all of his
greatness, of how he was condescending to us? No. He went to the Cross like a
lamb to the slaughter – in great humility. There is no trace of pride and
arrogance, only the model of humility for his followers.
Indeed,
because of the Cross he now calls the sinner home – and does so with consummate
gentleness. The Omnipotent God applies no force to his children; softly and
tenderly Jesus is calling the sinner home. The gentle Jesus needs no ax to
break down the door; he stands at the door and knocks.
The
mercy of God is also patient. He waits for the prodigal to return home, never
giving up hope of the sight of a son coming over the horizon. Even at death’s
door, God’s mercy is still available.
Compassion,
kindness, humility, gentleness and patience – these are the primary colors with
which God paints his mercy. It is good for us to remember the style of God.
It reminds us that none of us deserve the salvation we are given. It also
reminds us that when we leave this place of Communion, we should imitate our
Lord – in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. We follow
our Master’s way, in our Master’s style.
