A Word

Last New Year’s Day, my wife was inspired by the women’s ministry Walking with Purpose to have everyone in our family randomly, but prayerfully, choose a word from a rapidly scrolling digital list. Each word corresponded to a scripture passage. After we read aloud the corresponding passage, we all sat around and made a creative illustration of the word that we could keep as a reminder throughout the year. It had such staying power that the kids were impatient to see what word the Lord would have for them this year.

I received “mercy.” I felt like it was a good one for me, but I wasn’t exactly sure why. It didn’t take even a week of 2023 to be enlightened. I had been highly critical of someone (shocker) – complaining regularly to my wife and even to my oldest daughter. As my judgment spilled over into a conversation with a friend, my friend shared with me a difficult cross that person was carrying about which I had no idea. My stomach sank and suddenly my need to understand “mercy” this year became a lot clearer.

As an extrovert who shares his stories widely and weekly, I reflected on how easily I forget that, just because someone isn’t sharing their story with me, that doesn’t mean they don’t have one. In my life and leadership, I may not be able to know the stories of all those whom I encounter, but how frequently do I encounter people with the recognition that they have a story, that they might be carrying a cross, and it might even be a cross very close to mine? In Latin, the word is “misericordia,” which literally means "miserable heart." Does my heart hurt for the hurts of others? Before I make a judgment, before I respond to the possible symptoms of someone’s hurt, can I wonder and even ask what’s at the heart of the matter?

Perhaps my 2023 word is a reminder from the Lord that I don’t need to know someone’s story to show them mercy, I only need to remember His story, how He hurt for us. As we continue into our new year, may we develop “miserable hearts” in the holiest way possible.