The rose is said to be a floral symbol of God’s mercy, but what actually is mercy.? It is a word that sits at the core of Christian theology, and we can trace its usage back to the MERCY SEAT, which was situated in the Holy of Holies, the inner sanctuary of the Hebrew Tabernacle. It was there that the atoning blood was sprinkled by the High Priest every year on the day of atonement.

It was above this seat of mercy that God revealed his presence confirming his acceptance of the atoning blood of sacrifice. But now as believers we know that Jesus Christ our high priest entered into the true heavenly tabernacle with his own blood securing eternal redemption for all who put their trust in him.

Of course, the earthly tabernacle was but a copy of the heavenly reality where Jesus entered on our behalf. On earth there had to be continual sacrifices to maintain God’s forgiveness and mercy toward the people. But now we see Jesus who entered just once into the real holy of holies, the most holy place where God dwells. The mercy obtained for believers is now permanent.

The heart of God is full of compassion and mercy toward us. We can always approach His heavenly throne with confidence. It is there that the Father and the Son will be merciful and supply us with grace to meet our needs!

Ref. Hebrews 4:16 NIV.