Luke 23
I’m writing this on a Friday, T.G.I.F. Thank God it’s Friday, we say. Most scholars believe Jesus was crucified on Friday. After today’s reading, I’m thinking T.G.I.F. should stand for Thank God it’s Forgiveness.
Jesus is brought before Pilate and Herod. They don’t find anything they can execute him for. But there’s an angry, bloodthirsty mob that is shouting “KILL HIM”, “CRUCIFY HIM” over and over. The mob is screaming for his blood, and Pilate gives in to the pressure.
The innocent Jesus is then crucified between two criminals. Mocked, beaten, spit on, a crowd yelling for his blood, then the hammer clanging loudly against the nails, his innocent blood hitting the ground. He was nailed to a cross like a criminal. Then in verse 34 he says:
“Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”
Every other day, you hear about a crazy road-rage incident, someone flipping out at a fast-food employee. What would the world look like if we were quick to forgive?
I need to pray about being authentic, forgiving, submitting to his perfect Lordship over my life, and loving people the way Christ loves. To practice forgiveness in my daily life, I can start by taking small, thoughtful steps, such as acknowledging my feelings and choosing to let go of anger. I try my best to forgive, because Christ forgives me. I can also recite a simple prayer: ‘Lord, help me release my grudges and forgive those who have wronged me, as You have forgiven me.’ Jesus, shape me into Your forgiving likeness. Help me to be authentic, submit to Your perfect Lordship, and love others as Christ loves.