Wednesday, November 23
Forgive first
Scripture: Job 20-21, Proverbs 27, Luke 23
Luke 23:34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
Observation
In the midst of all the horror of this chapter—Jesus being beaten, whipped, mocked, slapped, and crucified—shines this single light: “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.”
Jesus prays for and forgives those who did the worst to Him—and that includes me. He died for my sins. And He forgave in the midst of His pain and suffering. He didn’t wait until after the resurrection, after a positive resolution. He didn’t wait until people repented and asked for forgiveness—they never did. He forgave in the middle of His suffering. He forgave first.
Stunning!
Application
I have never suffered to the degree Jesus did. I have never been wronged to the degree Jesus was. But I am called and challenged to pray for and forgive as He did in the midst of my pain. Don’t wait for them to repent—forgive first. Forgive them as Jesus forgave—for their sakes. And forgive for your own sake—set yourself free from having to carry that hurt, anger, bitterness and judgment. Let it go.
Today I’m going to review my accounts. Who am I holding anything against? Who do I need to forgive—for my own sake and theirs? I must remember that whatever wrongs I’ve endured are nothing compared to what Jesus experienced, and He forgive first. So follow His example.
Father, forgive them, they don’t know what they’re doing.
Prayer: Lord, I’m so grateful that You have forgiven me—I’m one of those who nailed You to a cross. Thank You. Now help me to forgive others as You have forgiven me. Forgive first.