If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone, you treasure the last words spoken. You remember what was said. You hold on to those final words. For Lent in 2021, we are focusing on the last words of Jesus from the cross. What did he say? What does it mean for us? How do those words change us? This week, we hear a word of forgiveness from the cross. Jesus said of those who were executing him, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
Invocation
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen!
Invitation Prayer
We pray: Lord Jesus, we are your disciples. We follow you.
That means we trace your footsteps even to the cross.
You are Friend of sinners.
You are Savior of the lost.
Reform our hearts in the shape of your will.
Release us from guilt and shame.
Restore us to new life in your image.
Lord, have mercy on us. Amen.
Confession
O God, in the beginning you made us good, even “very good.” I admit the many things in my life that are far from your good intent. I try to change, and then find myself in the same place once again. Lord, you know me. Have mercy. Make me right. Forgive my wickedness. Bring me back to good, as you intended from the beginning. Amen.
Word: Luke 23:34
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
Meditation
One of the final words Jesus spoke on earth was to forgive enemies. “Father, forgive them . . .” was spoken to his murderers. This is strange to us. We expect retaliation and retribution. If an enemy attacks, you have the right to strike back. Think of the political climate of our day. Or think about social media banter. The goal is to win, to destroy your enemies.
Jesus runs contrary to our ways. He pardoned the persecutor. The victim forgave the perpetrator. He forgave those who injured even as the injury was being inflicted.
This is a word the world does not know and cannot speak. Only Christ can pray such a prayer and speak such a word. He came to give His life as a ransom for many. We are grateful for these words of forgiveness, for he speaks them to us. Consider all the ways you have been an enemy of God, and thank him for his forgiveness from the cross.
Father, forgive me, for I know not what I do. Erase all my sins, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Sending
You are loved by God. Your end is not dust. He has given you life! Go from this place to a life of service and witness. Go in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
*Today’s devotion is taken from It Is Finished by Jeff Cloeter, published by CTA – Christ to All at ctainc.com