Today my heart lingers in the solemn hours before the Cross.
I picture the regiment of soldiers an overwhelming force surrounding one surrendered Man. History tells us a Roman regiment could number around two hundred trained soldiers. Two hundred armed men standing against Love incarnate. Two hundred men convinced they were defending order, protecting authority, and serving a higher cause… yet completely missing the sacred moment unfolding before them.
They were certain but they were wrong.
And that realization humbles me.
It reminds me how deeply I need humility and spiritual openness in my own walk with You, Lord. Conviction alone is not proof of righteousness. Passion without discernment can turn sincere people into instruments of harm. When we cling tightly to what we think You are saying, without seeking Your heart, we can wound others, misrepresent Your nature, and even work against Your Kingdom while believing we are defending it.
I see this tension not only in Scripture, but in the world around me today. Leaders, movements, and even believers take sides with fierce certainty. Many are convinced they are protecting truth, defending justice, preserving identity yet conflict deepens, division widens, and compassion grows cold.
Even theologians who have studied Your Word for decades may disagree sharply. Yet when I read Scripture for myself, I encounter You first as a God of love, rich in mercy, patient, gentle, and compassionate. I do not see a God who delights in destruction or who celebrates the suffering of nations. I see a Father whose heart grieves violence and whose mercy reaches toward repentance.
Yes, I remember that biblical history contains seasons of war. But I also recognize that humanity has grown, civilizations have evolved, and today we carry the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. We have language, diplomacy, wisdom, and spiritual discernment. Surely, Lord, You desire that we pursue peace, dialogue, and reconciliation where possible.
I do not see You favoring one people while hating another. I see Your desire that all would turn toward You and live.
So tonight my heart does not argue politics it intercedes for mercy.
Mercy for nations. Mercy for leaders. Mercy for the Church. Mercy for my country. Mercy for my own heart.
Because if we are honest, we are all capable of being those soldiers certain, armed with opinions, yet blind to Your heart.
And still… the Cross stands. A reminder that even in humanity’s worst moment, mercy spoke louder than judgment.
Wells of Wonder 