“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do…” (Luke 23:34a).
Some of us are familiar with the last words of Jesus from the cross. All of them revolved around the needs of others. The fact He was hanging there in our place, dying to take away our sins, filled our greatest need. Picture for a moment the scene at the cross. Imagine the shame and suffering the sinless Lamb of God endured to be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Yet He prayed today’s verse. If there ever was a portrait of true forgiveness, it was found at the cross.
Our sins, like the veil in the Temple, had separated us from a holy God. We needed a way to reconcile. Christ death on the cross provided that for us. When we repent, He stands ready to forgive. That veil is rent in two. The broken relationship is mended.
How many times have people said or done things to hurt us? Does that mean our relationship with them is irretrievably broken? Only through forgiveness can we fix conflict. It seems appropriate that our study should end with the one thing that can cure “spiritual muscle tension.”
If you have problems in the area of forgiveness, look first to the cross. Since His glorious resurrection, He continues to be the greatest example of forgiveness.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Pray for Joe Wilson, former Hanna Project Director as he transitions back into the pastorate.
