“But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved” -Ephesians 2:4-5
Olivia’s life had spiraled out of control. She was addicted methamphetamine, and by her own words she had, “Hit rock bottom.” Olivia’s life changed drastically the day she was pulled over and arrested for driving under the influence.
The change in Olivia’s life was for the better that day. After her arrest she began an almost 2-year program through the Oklahoma Drug Court where she became sober and clean. During her time in the program Olivia’s life was turned around. She was reunited with her son.
As I read this story, I found so many reasons to celebrate; a life that was lost to the damage of drugs was recovered, and a family was reunited. In the midst of the beauty of this story I was reminded of the power of mercy and love. When Olivia appeared in court, at the end of her time with the Drug Court, the judge asked her if she knew the police officer in the room. Olivia replied, “No.” The judge informed her that she did, in fact, know him. He was Sgt. Derek Dean, the officer who had arrested her two years prior. It was his actions that started her journey to sobriety and reconciliation with her family.
Reading about the two-year journey of Olivia Reese reminded me of the power of mercy. The day Officer Dean arrested Olivia was the day she began a journey toward healing and wholeness. I am thankful that the justice system gave Olivia an opportunity to change, and I am thankful that people like Sgt. Dean are willing to help a person to change, through mercy, rather than dismiss them as lost or hopeless.
Mercy is choosing to give someone a second chance by freeing him or her from the burden of the consequences of their actions. Olivia Reese received mercy when she was arrested. The court did not throw the book at her; rather they gave her an opportunity to set her life straight. This is mercy! We all need mercy in our lives. We all should be willing to offer mercy. When the people of God live lives of mercy, change is possible. Thanks be to God, we have all received mercy.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
