The trilogy of mercy are three works inspired by Scripture that wrestles with the mandate of love your neighbor. They are,
-
What would Jesus say, if he was just like us?
-
Jesus did not say (which speaks to no qualifications or disclaimers on his love)
-
The saga of the least of these
These poems are present in the book Daily Resurrections. The book is not a devotional, but it can be used that way. The title refers to the signature poem covering points during the day and during our lives when we are submerged and immersed in situations from which will rise.
Intellectually, we submit to the basic tenets of love and forgiveness. We accept that we all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. However, we must be reminded about mercy and how it goes hand in hand with love and forgiveness.
The first installment of the trilogy is a poem entitled What would Jesus say, if he was just like us? The poem is good for personal reflection and a group discussion. There is an irony in us expecting good things from God when we are reluctant to have His goodness trickle down from us to our neighbors.
If Jesus was just like us,
What would he do?
There is a matter I would like to discuss
What would Jesus do if he was like us?
Would he forgive unconditionally,
Or from a list he formed on Calvary?
He said, “Come to me all who are heavy laden
And I will give you rest.”
But would he make us fill out forms
And pass a series of tests?
And based on our affiliations,
Affinities, addresses and how we live,
Would he base reconciliation
On if he thought us worthy, to forgive?
If Jesus was just like us I wonder
About self serving parties to mark his reign,
Commanding the lightning and thunder
As miracles for personal gain.
Would he choose disciples by their net worth,
Socialize with an exclusive crowd,
Suggest we store treasures here on earth
As pompous, privileged ones and the proud?
To those who took the more traveled road,
For beating the system would he reward
Those who took short cuts to lighten their load
By throwing their good neighbors overboard?
What would Jesus do if he was like us?
Would grace be earned and favor granted?
Do you think he would be inclined,
To answer prayers with the favors slanted
To those with nice bodies, pure souls and minds?
Touch the hem of his garment for a price
Or sell tickets to let the spirit in;
Would he pose as the perfect sacrifice?
Would he do anything to save his skin?
Leadership for the Soul 