By Ayesha Kreutz
Jesus said, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” (Matthew 9:13, 12:7). Love and mercy are at the very heart of God — and mercy outweighs ritual. This is true when it comes to salvation, the sanctification process and so much more.
Rituals have their place. They can be good, healthy, and even God-ordained. I love rituals and religion. Corporate worship and fellowship, all great things God love. But they were never meant to replace justice, love, and obedience. Striving for purity is noble, but purity without love is empty. Being outwardly “righteous” while inwardly corrupt or spiritually dead is the opposite of our Father’s heart.
That’s why simply being a “good person” or doing “good things” will never earn us heaven. Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works — and the works that do matter flow from a heart transformed by God’s love.
God calls us to give away the love He has placed within us — even when it’s inconvenient, even when it feels futile, even when it’s not returned. Love is meant to be given away.
Build your relationship with God first, and from that foundation, love your fellow man. Mercy is not weakness; it’s the strength to act with compassion when justice demands it. For in God’s economy, justice is served with accountability and mercy.
