For he shall have judgment without mercy, that has showed no mercy; and mercy triumphs over judgment.
All Commentaries on James 2:13 Go To James 2
John Chrysostom
AD 407
Mercy is the highest art and the shield of those who practice it. It is the friend of God, standing always next to him and freely blessing whatever he wishes. It must not be despised by us. For in its purity it grants great liberty to those who respond to it in kind. It must be shown to those who have quarreled with us, as well as to those who have sinned against us, so great is its power. It breaks chains, dispels darkness, extinguishes fire, kills the worm and takes away the gnashing of teeth. (Mk 9:44-48) By it the gates of heaven open with the greatest of ease. In short, mercy is a queen which makes men like God.
