Christian Reflection and Prayer

 "Father, forgive them for they don't know what
they are doing" (Luke 23:34a).

 

If you wish to see forgiveness, look to the cross
of Christ. There you will see forgiveness in its
purest form. Even as the Savior hung upon the
cross, even as every one of the world's sins --
your sins, my sins, everybody's sins -- rested
upon Him, even as men gambled for His clothing
and laughed at His pain, He called out: "Father,
forgive them for they don't know what they
are doing" (Luke 23:34a).

 

Do you prefer forgiveness to be more personal?

 

Look into your own heart, at your own conscience,
 and know the worst sins that you find there are --
because of Jesus' suffering, death, and
resurrection -- gone.

 

Forgiveness? Look to the cross and remember that
place where died all our dark and devious deeds,
all our foul and filthy feelings.

 

Forgiveness? Look to the cross where your
forgiveness was won. Look into the Savior's empty,
open tomb and see His victory. Because of Jesus,
the Father -- rather than cursing and condemning
us -- redeems and restores us.

 

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, may my prayer echo that
of the tax collector, as I say, "Lord, be merciful to
me a sinner" (Luke 18:13b). Then, knowing that
through Jesus' suffering, death and resurrection,
I have been forgiven, may I lead a life that glorifies
You. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen. 

 

(taken from Lutheran Hour Ministries Daily Devotion­)