Do You Hear What I Hear?

Luke 23:34

And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."

Hanging on the cross, his body racked with pain, the first words that Jesus says is about forgiveness. How incredible is that?

Jesus could have prayed that His enemies be instantly put to death.

He could have prayed that the earth open its mouth and they be swallowed into hell.

He could have prayed that they all be placed on crosses and made to suffer as He was. Instead, He prayed that they would find grace in the eyes of God, and that God would forgive them for their sins.

Jesus demonstrated what He had been teaching His disciples all along. That we are called to respond differently than the world does when we are wronged. Jesus modeled a lifestyle that was not bound by the dictates of this world, but rather by His father in heaven.

On the cross, Jesus practiced what He preached. Jesus loved His enemies, blessing those who cursed Him. Doing good to those who hated Him, and praying for those who despite fully used Him and persecuted Him. Jesus demonstrated something that we all need to realize today. Contrary to the writings of modern day psychologists, man's two main needs are not "security and significance," But rather forgiveness for sin and redemption from sin.

Think on this today....

Romans 4:7 -

Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven and whose sins are covered.

Ephesians 4:32-

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

He is risen!

mb