Father, Forgive Them, They Know Not What They Do – Luke 23:34

These words, spoken by Jesus on the cross, carry timeless wisdom that transcends generations. It is the first of seven things Jesus said on the Cross. It does not automatically imply forgiveness, for forgiveness can be given by Jesus but it is still necessary for them to take action to accept that forgiveness. The Christian faith has at it’s heart a two-way relationship, Jesus offers and we accept.

But for this verse I want to encourage us to do as Jesus did and forgive. Everyone is on a journey, and sometimes, they may not fully grasp the consequences of their actions. Much like our own moments of unawareness, we too have been recipients of forgiveness.

Forgiving others is not a sign of weakness but a testament to our strength and compassion. It’s an acknowledgment that, like us, people are imperfect, prone to mistakes, and in need of understanding. We’re navigating a world where compassion can sometimes feel scarce, but it is through forgiveness that we break the cycle of negativity.

When we forgive, we liberate ourselves from the burden of resentment. It’s a powerful act of self-love, allowing us to grow, evolve, and channel our energy towards positive endeavours. As we encounter situations where forgiveness seems challenging, let’s remember that it’s not condoning the action but releasing ourselves from the chains of anger.