Luke 23:34-38 MEV
When Jesus left His home in glory, He came to fulfill the will of His Father. His mission was to restore disobedient, sinner man’s relationship with God by providing us eternal life. So, He came and lived a righteous life before humans in this evil world. Now as He is hanging on the old rugged cross dying for the sins of the world, He made seven statements. The first of them is “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (v.34a). What a powerful example to us – Jesus did not manifest anger for those who treated Him wrongly!
As the Roman soldiers divided His clothes by casting lots, (v.34b) fulfilling prophecy, “The people stood by watching. But the rulers with them scoffed, saying, “He saved others. Let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the Chosen One of God” (v.35). “And the soldiers also mocked Him, coming to Him and offering Him sour wine” (v.36), saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself” (v.37). “An inscription was written over Him in letters of Greek and Latin and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS” (v.38).
Despite His pain, He Who was sinless showed the world the necessity of humanity’s forgiveness of one another. He showed that forgiveness is for our relief, giving us the benefit of a healthier relationship with our neighbor and God. He knew that they who mocked and crucified Him were ignorant of what they had done. He made an intercessory prayer on their behalf. They didn’t understand “He is the Christ, the Chosen One of God,” and His love for sinners, nor His ultimate display of mercy and willingness to die for our sins.
Today, lift your voice and give God glory for His Son’s obedience!