Why is mercy important in Christian life?

Mercy is fundamental to Christian life as it mirrors the very nature of God. In Luke 6:36, Jesus teaches that we are to be merciful as our Father is merciful. This call to be merciful expresses our likeness to God, highlighting that our good works are not justifying but are evidence of our faith and the fruit of the Spirit. Practicing mercy allows believers to extend kindness to all, irrespective of their background or behavior, reflecting the grace God extended to us when we were unworthy. Thus, mercy becomes both a response to God's love and a means of showing that love to others.