Father, forgive them
Today's focusOn the cross Jesus prays for those crucifying him and promises paradise to a repentant criminal; his forgiveness is costly, undeserved and offered even to the least likely.
Read
32And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. 33And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. 34Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. 35And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. 36And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, 37And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. 38And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 39And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. 40But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 41And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. 42And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 43And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Reflection
At the place called Calvary, the deep cost of forgiveness is laid bare. Even as Jesus is "led with him to be put to death" alongside criminals, he does not meet mockery with anger. While soldiers cast lots for his clothes and rulers deride him, Jesus speaks a word of profound grace: "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." In his most agonizing hour, his heart is turned toward the very people causing his suffering. He offers mercy to those who do not ask for it and to those who do not yet understand what they are doing.
This same undeserved kindness reaches out to the "malefactors" hanging beside him. One criminal admits they are receiving the "due reward" of their deeds, yet he turns to the one who "hath done nothing amiss." In response to the simple plea, "Lord, remember me," Jesus grants a promise of total restoration. He tells the man, "To day shalt thou be with me in paradise." No matter how far you feel you have fallen, Jesus offers this same costly welcome to the least likely, inviting you into his presence today.
AI-written reflection on the passage above. Let Scripture itself be the main thing.
Reflect
What strikes you most about Jesus praying 'Father, forgive them' while he was suffering?
Pray
Lord Jesus, you prayed for those who crucified you and welcomed the thief who turned to you. Thank you for your costly forgiveness. Remember me, and teach me to forgive.