Want an interesting assignment? Google famous last words. Man! Talk about a litany of quotes!! What does that have to do with forgiveness and this post? Hang in there with me…please. 🙂
I am taking an interlude from Galatians and preaching a short series called “Famous Last Words.” I’m doing the first four; Ryan is taking the next two; I have the final one on Easter. The Gospels writers recorded the 7 last sayings from the cross. As I studied them I was struck by how they fall together-almost in twos. The first two are absolutely beautiful:
“Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.”
“Today you will be with me in paradise.”
Did you know the Greek construction of the first saying literally means He kept on praying “Father, forgive them”? It has always been depicted as a one-and-done scene. Not true. Each time something happened those words fell from His lips. Amazing!
And He still had time to acknowledge the thief on the cross and secure his salvation: “Today you WILL BE with me…” An act of forgiveness which released this career criminal from his chains and set him free.
That story never changes and I love telling it. So does Eileen. Go take a look at her post from yesterday. In the meantime, I’d appreciate your prayers for Sunday. Thanks.
I have never heard that this was an ongoing request from Jesus. It actually makes great sense to me given what he was going through. I will be praying for you in my morning devotionals.
I had never heart it either Daniel. Makes it more meaningful for sure. Thanks for your prayers.
Bill, I’m with Daniel, I had never heard that either. Amazing. Thanks for linking to my post too. I hope that those who are there to hear your message this weekend will (who might be struggling with forgiveness) understand..just a little bit more… the depth of His love for them
I am hoping the same Eileen. Forgiveness is so essential.
Like Daniel, I’d never heard that the Lord’s “last” words were not a done deal. What comfort that gives me, knowing He still forgives us all each and every day!
Blessings and prayers, Bill!
It took on a whole new meaning for me as well Martha.
Great post.. thanks for sharing my friend! <3 – http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com
You’re welcome Gingi. Check out the pics on her post of their new baby!
I love reading your posts , seldom comment. I struggled with forgiving a sibling for years. I forgive them….. But, I know they can never change, and I finally had to walk away. It hurts. But, it was destroying my peace, and my own sanity, what I have left. I only pray my decision to do so is right in my heavenly Father’s eyes.
Thanks Bobbi. It is nice to hear from you. Forgiving siblings is hard sometimes. Sad those closest to us often hurt us the most. You are right about one thing: it destroys our peace and sanity.