Sharron Kay King

Forgiveness

Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

When I first read this scripture years ago, I initially thought that Jesus was referring to the onlookers and accusers surrounding the cross at His crucifixion. But now that I've grown in the Lord and have a clearer understanding of His word I look at this scripture with a totally different mindset.

On the day of His crucifixion Jesus cried out for our forgiveness. He was making the ultimate sacrifice for our redemption with His own blood. Why wouldn't He cry out, "Father forgive them?" His death would be in vain if God had not been willing to forgive.

Through the years I have learned so much of God's love and grace towards all mankind. The mercy I received as a sinner is still the same grace that I receive as a saint. When I fall, God extends that same loving hand down to me to pick me up. When I fail Him, He uses that same precious blood to forgive me time after time after time. Oh, I am so grateful that His love never changes and His blood never runs out. Amen!

I often picture Jesus on the cross at times to envision what He went through just so I could go free. I think of the shame, the ridicule and the pain He suffered for my salvation. I can see the angry mob watching as His precious blood flow down His face. And while suffering excruciating pain and agony He thinks of you and me and cries with a loud voice, "Oh Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." I wonder if He was seeing our future. For even though many of us claim to bare witness of His death, burial and resurrection we still turn away from Him and walk our own walk. There are many "Christians" today whose lives make a mockery of Jesus Christ.

Many times I use this illustration, walking close to God is a lonely place. When we walk close to Him and seek His face and follow His ways we must face conviction. You might say like a check point. If I have fault in my life that I may be to blinded to see myself I pray that God send me a warning. God will often use a loved one or a friend to bring us a word from Him. Many times a complete stranger.

"Lord Jesus, I'm so humbled to know that while You were on the cross, You cried out for my soul. Every time I fall short of the glory of God I want to hear these words ringing in my heart, "oh Father, forgive her, for she knows not what she is doing." Amen

Sharron Kay King
http://www.sharronkayking.com