What does the Bible say about mercy and sacrifice?

In Matthew 9:13, Jesus directly quotes God, saying, 'I will have mercy and not sacrifice.' This statement reflects God's heart towards humanity, underscoring that mercy is prioritized over ritualistic practices. It reveals that God is not merely seeking for us to perform religious duties; instead, He seeks a relationship grounded in grace. The concept of mercy here is profoundly liberating, as it communicates that God’s compassion extends to those who recognize their spiritual sickness and need for Him.