Part 4: Mercy for the Desperate — Blind Bartimaeus

May 20, 2025 Off

Some of the most powerful prayers in Scripture aren’t polished—they’re desperate. One such cry came from a man sitting in the dust outside Jericho: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”— Mark 10:47 His name was Bartimaeus, and he was blind. He couldn’t see Jesus, but he must have heard the stories—of healing, compassion,…

By John Rains

Part 1: The Nature of Mercy — More Than Pity

May 20, 2025 Off

We often think of mercy as softheartedness or a kind of pity—but mercy, as revealed in Scripture, is far deeper than that. Mercy is compassion that moves. It sees pain, steps toward it, and acts with love. Mercy doesn’t just feel—it restores, protects, and redeems. In Exodus 34:6–7, when God reveals His name to Moses,…

By John Rains

Part 2: Grace is Unmerited Favor

May 19, 2025 Off

What is Grace? Grace is the foundation of the Christian faith, yet it is often misunderstood. Many people see grace as just a nice “gift” from God, but in reality, it’s far deeper and more profound than that. Grace is unmerited favor—it is God’s undeserved, unearned, and unrepayable love and kindness extended to us, not…

By John Rains