Mercy

Question:

Often, Christianity talks about mercy and grace. How does Unity conceptualize mercy, in particular?

Comment:

Our cofounder, Charles Fillmore, defined mercy as "Christlike treatment toward the suffering," adding that "the important point in desiring to be merciful is righteous adjustment, as this results in true overcoming" (The Revealing Word, p. 132).

We say that God is merciful when the results of our negative consciousness are less severe than they might be; we are spared some degree of the consequences of our fear-based belief. We exhibit the same divine mercy when we extend love and support to others who are suffering negative consequences, instead of leaving them to find their own way. Mercy does not create exceptions to the basic law of the universe that choices have consequences; but it allows the power of love to gently ease the effects of the law.

Blessings!

Rev. Ed