When you are wronged, or in a tough spot, what is your first reaction?

It might be frustration, hurt, or straight up anger. Maybe you lash out at those around you and get loud, start pointing fingers everywhere. Some may go the opposite direction and get quiet and isolated, stewing over the situation and bringing on additional stress. Your initial reaction probably has not been asking yourself why you are feeling that way or what it is that’s causing you to react. And most often, your first inclination is not toward forgiveness.

This week we are in the beginnings of Holy Week, where we remember some of the last key moments in Jesus’ earthly life and ministry. And timely as it is, this week’s passage is Luke 23:32-34. After many, many wrong things have already happened to Jesus – his arrest, beating, suffering, carrying the cross, and more – He is led to “The Skull” or Golgatha where He, along with two criminals, is crucified. Jesus – the Son of God, who lived a life of service, who had done no wrong – was crucified like a criminal, along with criminals.

32 Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. 33 And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. 34 And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” – LUKE 23:32-34

Looking at all of that, as humans, we can say that Jesus would have every right to be lashing out and angry about all of it. Really all along the way He’d have every right to react however He wanted, right? Wrong. He proceeded through everything that He walked through with peace, love, and even silence.

And then here, even on the cross, dying and in agony – He speaks Forgiveness.

That stops me in my tracks. That causes me to think – how many times did I speak (or speak by staying silent) something other that forgiveness?

Now I could stay stuck there and allow that to overwhelm me – or I can take those times that come to mind right to Jesus. God is bigger than all of my questions, shortcomings, and places where I feel I have failed. So He can take all that I bring. And the beautiful thing is He responds in the same way – with forgiveness. The very forgiveness that was won for me (and you and every one of His children) through Jesus’ death on that cross, through His conquering of sin and death, and in the victory of His resurrection.

So I encourage you today – whether it’s in your family relationships, with a friend, coworker, or neighbor – with open hands, take some of those past issues to Jesus. Confess the things you need to lay down, and receive His forgiveness. Then as you have received it, be prepared to pour it out on others too. Show the same love and forgiveness to others that Jesus has shown to you.

Consider these questions/actions as you reflect on this passage this week:

1. Take the time to write down some of the situations you may be struggling with. Ask yourself what it is about those situations you may be reacting to, then think through how to address those feelings in yourself.

2. Who is in need of forgiveness from you? Identify the places where you could show Jesus’ love and forgiveness. Take the first step this week in beginning that process.

Connect with more information about the Love For All Weekly Devotion and additional resources at SPLDECATUR.ORG/LOVEFORALL and SHARE your thoughts, questions, and prayers with us HERE.