Throughout the Lenten Season, a member from our church will be writing a weekly meditation. This is included in the bulletin as an insert. So that we can share these writings with the larger internet community, they will be posted here every Sunday afternoon. Please share these guest blog posts with your friends and family members and join us in our journey toward the Cross. This week's meditation was written by Dr. Wilbur New for a 2006 Lenten Devotional Guide before prior to his death in 2011.
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34
Do you think that Jesus meant these words only to those crucifying Him? I don’t think so. I feel it is so much more than that. I believe He was saying it to everyone, even to us today. He wants to forgive our sins, but it is up to us. We must repent and ask for forgiveness. He doesn’t forgive us against our will. How about us? Are we quick to forgive others, or do we hold onto the hurt and never let go? What pain, bitterness, anger, and depression we suffer when we don’t forgive as He forgives us.
There were two thieves on crosses beside Jesus. One went with Him that day to Paradise. The other did not because he didn’t ask. In today’s world, we are so concerned about “things” that we push God aside and go on our indifferent way with Satan. That is until a calamity strikes, sickness, financial reverses, emotional upheaval, or an accident. Then, and only then, we turn to God asking why. We ask for forgiveness, direction for our lives, and release from our problems. And even though we haven’t been faithful, God still hears and forgives. He is an awesome God, isn’t He?
Dr. Wilbur New
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34
Do you think that Jesus meant these words only to those crucifying Him? I don’t think so. I feel it is so much more than that. I believe He was saying it to everyone, even to us today. He wants to forgive our sins, but it is up to us. We must repent and ask for forgiveness. He doesn’t forgive us against our will. How about us? Are we quick to forgive others, or do we hold onto the hurt and never let go? What pain, bitterness, anger, and depression we suffer when we don’t forgive as He forgives us.
There were two thieves on crosses beside Jesus. One went with Him that day to Paradise. The other did not because he didn’t ask. In today’s world, we are so concerned about “things” that we push God aside and go on our indifferent way with Satan. That is until a calamity strikes, sickness, financial reverses, emotional upheaval, or an accident. Then, and only then, we turn to God asking why. We ask for forgiveness, direction for our lives, and release from our problems. And even though we haven’t been faithful, God still hears and forgives. He is an awesome God, isn’t He?
Dr. Wilbur New
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