Father Forgive Them
Father Forgive Them: A Lenten Reflection
Every year, as the season of Lent begins, we are invited into a sacred time of reflection and preparation. Much like Advent stretches out the anticipation of Christmas, Lent extends our journey toward Easter, allowing us to walk intentionally with Jesus toward the cross. It is a season of repentance, of deep soul-searching, and of turning our hearts toward the sacrifice and love of Christ.
For many, Lent is marked by giving something up—chocolate, social media, or coffee. Others take on new disciplines, like daily prayer, acts of generosity, or Scripture meditation. These practices are not about mere self-denial but about making space for God to work in our hearts. It is a time to remember our frailty—that from dust we were made, and to dust we shall return (Genesis 3:19). But even more, it is a time to remember that in our weakness, we are held by the grace of God.
This year, as we journey through Lent together, we will be focusing on the famous last words of Jesus from the cross. These words are not just historical recordings; they are windows into the heart of Christ, spoken in the most agonizing moments of His life. They reveal His mission, His mercy, and His invitation for us to follow Him.
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
As Jesus hung on the cross, bloodied and beaten, mocked by those who surrounded Him, He uttered one of the most astounding prayers ever spoken:
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)
Imagine the scene. Soldiers gambling for His clothes. Religious leaders sneering, spectators hurling insults. The ones He came to save are the very ones who placed Him on that cross. And yet, instead of anger or condemnation, Jesus offers forgiveness.
What kind of love does that?
It’s easy for us to read these words with a sense of detachment, but the truth is, we are in that crowd, too. We have all, in some way, turned our backs on Jesus. We have spoken words that wounded others, harbored bitterness, and chosen our own way over God’s. And yet, His words extend to us as well. Father, forgive them.
The Challenge of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is not easy. Perhaps you have been hurt deeply—betrayed, lied to, abandoned. Maybe there are wounds in your life that still ache when you think of them. The idea of forgiving those who have wronged you may feel impossible.
But Jesus understands.
There is nothing we have suffered that compares to what He endured on the cross. And yet, He forgave. Not because the people deserved it, but because that is who He is.
His example teaches us that forgiveness is not about excusing or forgetting the harm done. It is not about pretending it never happened. Rather, forgiveness is about releasing the hold that bitterness has on our hearts. It is about choosing freedom over resentment, grace over revenge.
As Jesus’ followers, we are called to forgive as we have been forgiven. This doesn’t mean it happens overnight. It doesn’t mean trust is immediately restored. But it does mean surrendering our pain to the One who can heal it.
A Heart Check for Lent
As we continue our journey through Lent, let’s take a moment to examine our hearts.
- Is there someone you need to forgive?
- Are you carrying resentment that is weighing you down?
- Have you fully received the forgiveness Jesus offers you?
Lent is an opportunity to lay these burdens at the foot of the cross. To allow Jesus’ words to sink deep into our hearts and transform us. Because the truth is, we are not just called to receive His forgiveness—we are called to extend it to others.
A Call to Respond
As we prepare our hearts for Easter, may we remember the incredible mercy of Christ. May we sit with His words and allow them to shape us. And may we take a bold step in offering the same grace that has been lavished upon us.
This week, I invite you to take time in prayer and reflection. Ask God to show you any unforgiveness in your heart. And if He brings someone to mind, take a step—whether through prayer, a letter, or a conversation—to move toward forgiveness.
Jesus’ words from the cross are not just ancient history; they are an invitation. An invitation to receive grace. An invitation to live differently. An invitation to turn our hearts fully toward the cross.
Will you accept it?