“Forgive Them…” Luke 23:34
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. - Luke 23:34
Even while he was dying, Jesus’s heart was to have mercy on those who deserved retaliation. He’d endured the worst torture that humanity had to offer, and while He was taking on their punishment and drinking the cup of God’s wrath, He wished them nothing but love. Forgiveness is one of the most powerful ways we can display God’s love to others, and Jesus personified perfect love while He lived on earth, and even while He died.
Who are some people in your life that you need to forgive? Forgiveness isn’t a way of brushing aside sin, but rather, transferring the burden of punishment from yourself to an Almighty God who can deal with their sin with perfect justice. It is also a way we can show God we love Him, and sacrificially obey Him.