A Resurrection-Shaped Voice: “From the Cross…”
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
Luke 23:34
Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots to divide his clothing.”
The sky went dark. The air felt heavy. And Jesus hung there—hurting, mocked, and stuck in place. If I’m honest, if that were me, my words would not be kind. But Jesus didn’t.
Luke tells us that Jesus said,
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”.
Think about that. Nails in his hands. The world's sin is on his shoulders. People laughing below. And still—Jesus prays forgiveness. He doesn’t pretend that what they are doing is okay. The cross proves it is not okay. Sin is real. Cruelty is real. Evil is real.
But Jesus is also real. And mercy is real.
Jesus looks at the people who are hurting him, and he says, “They don’t know what they’re doing.” It’s like he’s saying, “They’re blind. They’re lost. They think they’re winning, but they’re not.”
Here’s the wild part: that prayer wasn’t only for the soldiers. It was for everyone who has ever done something wrong and then tried to act like it didn’t matter. That prayer was for every sharp word, every selfish choice, every hidden sin. That prayer was for you.
And if Jesus can pray forgiveness while he’s bleeding, then maybe—just maybe—he can help you forgive while you’re still hurting. Not because the other person “deserves it.” Not because it’s easy. But because Jesus is alive, and his forgiveness is bigger than your pain.
Today, picture Jesus on the cross, using his breath to bless the people who don’t deserve it. Then whisper a small prayer: “Father, forgive me.” And if you’re ready: “Father, help me forgive them too.”
Have a great day!
-Martin's Lutheran
