Clarifying our Definition of Mercy

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Joel Beeke writes,
"It is popular in some circles to define grace as God's giving people what they do not deserve, and mercy as his not giving people what they do deserve."
This is how I have often heard it taught and I have also used this distinction myself. Beeke continues,
"However, in the New Testament, the Lord's 'mercy' is better defined as his active compassion toward those in misery. We see this in the cries of the blind men who desired that Christ would heal them: 'Have mercy on us!'" (emphasis added).
If we define mercy as "not giving people what they deserve," this becomes harder to square with the blind men and their request of the Lord. The mercy they desire to be shown is healing! It's not a withholding of something bad which they deserve, but it is an act of compassionate healing they desire. Notice that after crying out numerous times for mercy, Jesus asked them, 
“What do you want me to do for you?” They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him (Matt 20:30-31). 
This account better fits the definition that mercy is "active compassion toward those in misery." Of course, withholding punishment that someone deserves is one way that God shows compassion upon miserable souls. Thus, the forgiveness of sins and rescue from judgment is indeed tremendous mercy from God!

Additionally, the word translated "giving to the needy" (Mt 6:2) or "give as alms" (Lk 11:41) has the Greek word for "mercy" at its root. When humans perform a work of mercy, it is an act of compassion, not so much a withholding of something bad. So, the phrase "works of mercy" makes sense as it refers to acts done in compassion and benevolence toward others.

This clarification seems to make mercy a broader category. For example, God is not just merciful to us when he spares us from his wrath (i.e. withholding what we deserve). Rather, every aspect of our salvation is part of his mercy (i.e. his compassion toward those of us who were in the misery of sin).

It is always good to sharpen our understanding of the Scriptures and I think Beeke is helpful on this point.

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