Jesus is Essential
Luke 23:34: Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.
Jesus, gazing upon the blood-spattered soldiers, said, “ ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots” (v. 34). Two things here require careful notice. First, the “them” in “forgive them” was for the Roman soldiers alone, who in all truthfulness did not know what they were doing. As David Gooding has remarked, “False sentiment must not lead us to extend the scope of the prayer beyond his intention.”
Secondly, Jesus did not forgive the soldiers for their sins or sinful condition. He extended specific forgiveness for a specific sin. Nevertheless, the amazing initial (and enduring) reflex of Jesus’ crucified heart was to forgive. This is amazing, astounding grace! And for at least one of the soldiers, Jesus’ prayer was not futile. Some hours later, when “the centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, ‘Surely this was a righteous man’ ” (v. 47). The Crucifixion was for him the dawning of amazing grace. 1
Walking with Jesus
Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive. Consider how the Lord can establish in you, a forgiving heart towards others, from this day forward. At the cross, It was Jesus who offered forgiveness before anyone ever requested it. Lets pray to have the heart of Jesus when it comes to relationships with others. By the grace of God, forgive the offenders in your heart immediately. Do not let the offense turn to bitterness and resentment. Forgiveness sets you free from much emotional bondage. Why delay? Be set free today! “Father, forgive them” and forgive me.
And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:12
The power to forgive is a gift from God, given to those who have been forgiven.
Praying
Lord, thank you providing my forgiveness in advance of my sinfulness.
1. Hughes, R. K. (1998). Luke: that you may know the truth. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
