Forgiveness Matters

Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed.  When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals–one on his right, the other on his left.  Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing…”  (Luke 23:32-34)

Dear Father God, I am humbled by Jesus first words from the cross.  He has been beaten beyond recognition, flogged numerous times, crowned with a crown of thorns, and has been receiving nonstop insults from those who were watching.  He barely had any life left in Him.  Yet, His very first words from the cross were, “Father, forgive them…”  

Lord, I’m so sorry for the times that I have held unforgiveness in my heart towards others.  Please forgive me for being insensitive and unkind.  Please forgive me for my unforgiving heart.  I pray that You will give me the ability to forgive quickly just as I see Christ has done from the cross.  

Lord, I also see that Jesus never breathed a murmur or sigh of complaint while He faced His execution.  He never waved a flag of surrender.  He never once threw in the towel.  He climbed Calvary’s Hill for me.  My sins nailed Him to that cross.  Lord, may I live every day of my life thankful for the sacrifice that has been made on my behalf.  May my life declare the praises of my Redeemer and may I daily look for opportunities to raise His banner high!  

Read more in Luke 23:26-43.