Have you ever been in a position where you hold the power to change another’s life? Not those little innocent moments that influence a career or relationship change, but actually hold another man’s future in the palm of your hand? I personally have not, but recently found myself accidentally front and center to such a circumstance.  I grew up seeing a thief as a thief and liar as a liar. I firmly believe punishments are necessary, suited to the crime. Forgiveness is something that took me more years to learn to gift than I care to admit. But as I stood in the shadows of conflict and serious decision making of a man’s life, I was in awe.  I had my own personal opinion of how this person should be handled, but had no right to act on it. It wasn’t me that was affected by the crime, so my opinion didn’t matter. Oddly as minutes ticked and hours lingered, I realized those holding all the cards were struggling with their decision of this man’s fate. I love witnessing divine intervention first hand, and I did. Choosing Mercy over punishment was the last thing I had expected to be offered to this wrongdoer, yet, mercy was given.

Websters defines Mercy as compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm. And though this man earned punishment, he was given an opportunity. To right his wrong and accept help against the lifestyle that drove him into desperation. I know very few men who would have offered a second chance if they were the victim of sin, but last night, I saw two men offer it honestly. I am reminded how we as a people are so often quick to judge and condemn. I cannot predict the outcome of this man’s life, nor can the men holding the cards. Truth be it this wrongdoer could easy take advantage of this mercy given to him and abuse the gift. But I was moved that he was even given this second chance nonetheless. I guess we all could learn to step back and consider that those wronging us might just be capable of more, of better. That maybe we have made it to easy to toss aside imperfect people. I would hope after this experience I find myself being like these card holders, capable of giving forgiveness and mercy. To change another’s life, to bring them out of the darkness they spend a lifetime in, could literally save a man’s soul. What greater accomplishment could we ever hope to achieve than to save a life?