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We asked Joel why he drew a picture of a fruit tree to describe what 'mercy' means to him. His answer was beautiful and profound. Joel said that a fruit tree describes mercy because God shows kindness and provides for everyone, whether they do good things or bad things.
Even though we may sometimes obey God's laws and break them at other times, God still shows mercy to us by providing a sun that shines, trees that grow, and fruit that tastes delicious.
The Bible says that God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness (Exodus 34:6)," and that He "...did good and gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness." That means that even though our sin might deserve punishment, God still shows kindness to us just as a loving father would.
So whenever you feel the warm sun, or the cooling rain, or see a fruit tree full of yummy fruit, remember that these good things are demonstrations of God's mercy.
Children's Hunger Fund provides Food Paks and other aid to local churches in impoverished regions around the world. We do this so that churches may show God's mercy and deliver hope to hungry families.
To find out more and to help deliver hope, visit ChildrensHungerFund.org.