Father, Forgive Them

 Luke 23: 32-34

“32 Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. 33 When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. 34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”  And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”

Jesus had just been put through a number of trials at which he was falsely accused, was spat upon, mocked, beaten, and whipped.  Now nails were driven through his hands and feet and he was raised on a cross.  

The first words he uttered from the cross were words of forgiveness; forgiveness for those who had lied about Him, spat upon Him, mocked Him, beaten Him and crucified Him.  Jesus had said many wonderful things in His life on this earth.  But none more wonderful than these.

Here we see a living faith.  Christ did not just teach love and forgiveness, He lived it.

In the same way, Christians are called to live their faith.  And whenever we are suffering, or weak, or angry, let us remember the example of our Lord on the cross.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)