Streams of Mercy

I sat out on the front steps of the manse this beautiful Fall morning to listen to the church chimes as they welcomed the new day. An important Monday tradition for me is being “present” when the chimes play throughout the day, and usually I’m able to sing along!

This morning’s special hymn was “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy.” I remember singing it often at First Presbyterian in Harlan, and found I could recall the words even at 75 years!

“There’s a wideness in God’s mercy, like the wideness of the sea. There’s a kindness in God’s justice, which is more than liberty. There is no place where earth’s sorrows, are more felt than up in heaven; There is no place where earth’s failings have such kindly judgment given. For the love of God is broader than the measures of the mind; And the heart of the Eternal is most wonderfully kind. If our love were but more faithful, we would gladly trust God’s Word; And our lives reflect thanksgiving for the goodness of our Lord. “

This hymn would have been perfect in yesterday’s service!

Yesterday’s sermon was “Living on God’s Terms”, considering the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. We were challenged to “step into” the parable and see where we find ourselves standing. Do we stand with those arriving later in the day, filled with joy at the unexpected generosity of the landowner? Do we stand among those who have worked all day, angry at the unfairness of it all? Do we stand with the landowner, celebrating his generosity, and affirming his desire to see that each worker is paid the needed daily wage?

We learned that God’s gracious generosity- God’s grace – is extended on God’s terms. The unfairness that seems so obvious in this story indicates not a problem with God or the story itself, but a problem with us!

The truth of the matter is that we’re all 11th hour workers, recipients of a blessing far beyond our own effort or deserving. When we truly allow ourselves to recognize and experience the generosity of God’s grace, we have some understanding of the Giver of that grace.

Giving thanks for the “wideness of God’s mercy” and for this beautiful Monday morning.

Elizabeth