September 5

Forgive

"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34

What amazing words these are! Despite the fact that our Lord and Savior was dying a painful death, he prayed for those who were responsible for putting him on that cross. When dying in pain he went to the one who could help him through, his Father. When we find ourselves in situations when we are being wronged, let us remember to go to our Father who will help us through. The text goes on to ask for the forgiveness of those who had put him on the cross. There was no question that those who took part in his death were guilty of a most heinous crime. Judas had betrayed his friend with a kiss for 30 pieces of silver. The Pharisees had been guilty of manipulating the system to get rid of him. They had bribed witnesses to bear false testimony against Jesus. They had allowed their own greed and pride to blind them to who Jesus was. The Jewish people shouted for his death. Pilot knowingly sent an innocent man to the cross. The Roman soldiers mocked the Son of God and then nailed him to that cross and not only watch him die in agony, but cast lots for his clothes. There was no question at all that these people were guilty, nor is there any record of their remorse, yet Jesus chose to forgive them. They had no idea of the enormity of their crimes for they had no idea they were killing the Son of God. The Jewish people had cried, "Let his blood be upon us and our children." Little did they know that his blood would be placed upon them, but in such a different way than they were asking for. It was Jesus blood that would pay the price for their salvation. The very act that brought condemnation on their heads would also bring them salvation. What a lesson this is for us. Is there someone who has wronged you? Is there someone in your life who has caused you pain and is blind to it? Follow in the footsteps of your Master, pray for their forgiveness. Do not demand an apology first, Jesus did not. While he was in agonizing pain, he prayed for those who were causing his pain. He forgave and so must we.

Father; help us to follow in the footsteps of our Savior. What an example of unconditional love he was! How he could forgive those who caused him such pain I will never understand, but help me to be like him. Help me to let go and care more for others and their salvation than for the pain they

are causing me. May I be about your business Father, just as Jesus was. Thank you for a wonderful Savior. Make me like Him. Amen