Luke 23:32-34 (NIVUK)
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.
There are many inspiring stories of forgiveness, but this is the one that always comes to my mind. Jesus is being executed, unjustly, he has done nothing wrong. Whilst he hangs there, he is treated with contempt and ridicule. Beneath him, guards casually compete over who will get to take his garments. Most surely would either be overcome with anguish or anger, but Jesus in an act of astonishing grace, recognises that they do not fully comprehend what they’re doing with the complexity of life and with their limited fallen nature. This is an amazing act of self-control and generosity.
Father, forgive us, like those around Jesus, we are unable to live without hurting others and ourselves.
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