Matthew 7

We were standing outside the prison during the prayer vigil before the execution of Patrick Moody, when a voice came over the speakers: “Can I have everyone's attention please. I have some bad news. I have just been told that the governor has denied Patrick clemency.”

We use 'legalese' language to talk about the process and what takes place, but I think it numbs us to the language. Patrick's plea for clemency was denied? He begged for mercy, and received a “no?” I tried to think of times in my life I have been told “no.” Then I tried to think of times in my life I have been told “no” when it was mercy I was seeking.

Does God deny clemency? If one were to stand before God and beg for mercy, would God deny it? I think of Jesus' words: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will open.” Jesus goes on to elaborate on how much better God is than us, and how much more likely God is to give us good things. What mother would ignore her child's apology? What father would turn away from his child's “sorry”? Does God deny clemency?

-Matt