Molly’s Minute: Forgiving Like Jesus

In the book of Luke, chapter 23, Jesus is arrested by the Jewish authorities.

These men beat him and mock him. They have him stand trial and deliver him over to be crucified.

And after they’ve put him through all that, as he hangs on the cross, Jesus lifts up this prayer:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

Jesus forgave the people who nailed him to the cross even as he still hung on the cross.

Can we pray today that we can forgive like that, too?

Jesus, what an example of forgiveness you’ve set for me.

If you could forgive the men who crucified you—who put you through that much physical and emotional pain—how could I withhold forgiveness from anyone who does me wrong?

Lord, when someone hurts me, help me remember your example. Then, strengthen me to forgive them the way you forgave those who hurt you.

In your precious and powerful name, Jesus.

Amen.