How do you feel when you have been mistreated? I recently read the biographical book Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand (Random House, 2010). It is a WWII story of survival, resilience and redemption. The main character is Louis Zamperini, an Army Air Force bombardier and Olympic runner. He ran a 4:14 mile, barefoot on the ocean sand, but rather than train and perform in the Olympics he was called to serve in a war. One fateful day his B-24 went down in the Pacific Ocean. After days of survival on the ocean, he was picked up by the Japanese. He then survived three tortuous years in several Japanese POW camps with the fiercest of all war criminals, Watanabe Mutsuhiro. Louis endured unspeakable humiliation, dehumanization, starvation and torture at the hands of Watanabe.
When the war was over, Louis was rescued to return home, reliving the torture daily in flashbacks and dreams. He was consumed by the idea of saving enough money to fly to Japan to confront his attacker. When he was no longer able to cope with the memories he resorted to drinking. The drinking became so controlling, that his life was falling apart. One day, someone very close to him invited him to hear the story of Jesus. He initially resisted, but eventually listened and learned of the life of Jesus. He became a believer and his life was transformed. He let Jesus take control, letting go of the fear and hatred he had for Watanabe. He could now sleep peacefully. He never drank another drink. It took years, but he saved the money to return to Japan and find Watanabe and tell him he forgave him. What mercy!
Do you realize that you receive peace when you give mercy? God will bless your obedience. He asks us to have mercy on others, because he knows of the influence we will have and the peace he will provide. Paul said, “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:12-14). Jesus said, “I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-45).
Reflect on Jesus’ merciful reaction as he was spat upon, tortured and humiliated. How can we withhold mercy to others? We can’t! Jesus said, “Pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28). We must call upon God to help us show mercy… even when our heart has been trampled.
Our Father God, forgive us for withholding our mercy toward others. Transform our hearts, so that your love and mercy take control. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Terry Smith
Stephenville, Texas
Sounds like a great book and a great reminder of God's mercy. Thank you for your writing!
ReplyDelete