“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.” (Luke 23:34)

     We can certainly acknowledge the magnitude of Jesus asking forgiveness, while on the cross, to those who were directly responsible for this execution.  God’s forgiveness extends far and wide.

     It is true that they did not know what they were doing.  They were crucifying the Son of God, but they did not realize it at the time, or some were not ready to fully acknowledge it. 

     Sin has a way of blinding us to the truth.  We don’t know what we are doing, and even if we do, we might feel that we can get by with it, but if we know Jesus, our hearts are convicted of sin, and it is good when we acknowledge it.  Yes, we can be forgiven, and the grace and mercy of our Lord enables us to pray in the same manner David did.  Our Lord understands us, completely, and he wants us to have joy in our hearts and to live abundantly.

Prayer: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.  Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.  Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (Psalm 51:10-12)