In Luke 23:34, Jesus says during His crucifixion, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
Throughout Jesus’ teachings, we are told to love our enemies, for they are more than the sin they’ve committed. In the above verse, it sends a message that we need to forgive those who have sinned against us. However, it is just as important that we ask for forgiveness as well. This can be seen through the Lord’s Prayer, “Father forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who have trespassed against us.”
This season of Lent, one of my focal points is to intentionally practice the forgiveness Jesus has repeatedly given to me. I often find myself getting so caught up in my own pride that I become nearsighted, only seeing how I am affected rather than seeing a whole situation. Due to this point of view, I will catch myself being judgmental towards my brothers and sisters in Christ.
Romans 14:10-11 says, You then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgement seat.
This verse in Romans explains that as Christians, we have been granted no right or reason to judge one another. By thinking or acting on judgmental thoughts, are we defacing the credibility of God’s power?
Also in Romans 14:13 the Bible says, Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.
To fully appreciate the cross and the Saving Grace Jesus has gifted to us, we must act in a way that fully represents the cross. Forgiveness cannot be bypassed when in a fully committed relationship with God, when He has forgiven each one of our sins. Therefore, we can’t repent and expect forgiveness for ourselves when we are not making that forgiveness accessible to others.
Erika Manning, Production Assistant
