December 23, 2021 | Luke 23

Read Luke 23

Scripture- Luke 23: 34 Jesus said, “Father,forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Observations- This verse is incredible. Jesus is hanging from the cross after being tortured, beaten, and whipped. He has had his hands and feet held down and nails were driven through them. He had a crown of thorns placed on his head. Now as he hangs from the cross he hears the taunts from the people below. Yet, from the cross he doesn’t attack them. He doesn’t call down curses. He doesn’t retaliate. Instead, he speaks words of healing as he asks his Father to forgive them even without an apology from the people. 

Application- This line from Jesus emphasizes his love for me. Before I had a chance to apologize, Jesus was forgiving me. Before I had the opportunity to change my ways, Jesus forgave me. Jesus’ love and forgiveness is not dependent on me. He loves and forgives me because that’s who he is. That’s who I want to be today too. I want to love and forgive others freely just like Jesus has done for me. I’m not going to wait until someone changes their ways or apologizes. I’m simply going to love and forgive because my Savior loves and forgives me every day. 

Prayer- Dear Jesus, what incredible love you have for all people, me included. Thank you for forgiving me for all my sins. You hung from that cross to pay for all my mistakes, failures, and sins so that I stand forgiven before God. Give me your Holy Spirit to make me a more loving and forgiving person like you. Amen.