Jesus’ Prayer for forgiveness                                                               March 25, 2010

Luke 23:34

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.
"Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing." Jesus must repeat those words over and over as He looks down upon those of us living today. Can you imagine how often Jesus must hang his head in disbelief because of the things we humans do to one another and to the environment.

Jesus said in John 13:34-35: A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35: By this shall all know that ye are my disciples, if ye have loved one to another.

But do we love one another? Are we good stewards of the earth? We are created in God's image, and as God is our caretaker, we are to be caretakers of the earth. But are we? You can be sure Jesus is saying to the Father on our behalf, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing."

How ignorant are we? Jesus said, "Love one another as I have loved you." Yet, there are still wars, children and the elderly are abused when we as a nation cut back programs for the poor and needy who have no voice or can't stand up for themselves, and when we belittle their plight saying they have brought it upon themselves. We humans continue to abuse the earth, destroying fragile ecological systems and the balance of nature, destroying resources, animals, fish and wildlife when we were to care for and protect them. Jesus must be saying to the Father, "Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they're doing."

Prayer:

Jesus, as You were fastened to the cross between two thieves, You prayed for those who crucified You. You suffered and died to deliver the forgiveness of sin for us. Thank you Jesus! We may not be criminals such as those crucified with you, but we are far from being righteous, that is, in a right relationship with God. Please give us the wisdom we need to repent and turn from our sinful ways. Please Jesus intercede for us daily and say, "Father, forgive them for they don't know what they're doing." Amen.