“The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy” (Psalm 103:8).

Tony and his dad stood at the door of Harry and Trudy’s. A few minutes earlier these homeowners had discovered that their newly installed decorative fence had been destroyed. Now Tony was humbly expressing his apologies for breaking it. Wouldn’t you know he had been showing off on his motorcycle! Several of the young ladies from his school were the objects of his attempts to make an impression. They were impressed to say the least! Offering to pay for the fence, Tony again sincerely apologized.

After glancing at his wife, Harry said, “Well, to be honest, at first I was pretty upset about the fence. But now that I hear the entire story, I remember the time I rammed into my principal’s car at school trying to impress a pretty young lady who is now standing beside me! The most important thing I want you to know is that there have been plenty of times that I have been given lots of mercy and grace from the Lord. It appears to me that I now have the chance to extend a little mercy and grace to you.”

Together the four of them agreed that mercy and grace are wonderful. Tony still had to pay for the fence, but the offense was graciously handled. How about you? Is there someone to whom you might show some mercy and grace today?

Be on the lookout to demonstrate grace and mercy today. I don’t want what I deserve. I rejoice in mercy and grace. How about you?