The PromiseSample

The Crucifixion of Jesus

Listen to "The Crucifixion of Jesus":

Reflect

As humans, it feels nearly impossible to forgive those who deeply hurt us. Yet, in this story, we see how the Lord modeled it for us. We are so familiar with the death of Christ that we sometimes forget the depth of His suffering.

Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them. They don’t know what they are doing.” It certainly seems as if the religious leaders knew what they were doing – they knew that Jesus did nothing worthy of death – yet their jealousy and self-righteousness brought them to the point of murder. Still, Jesus extended grace and prayed for them. He did not begrudgingly forgive out of duty or to win the Father’s favor. His plea was heartfelt.

If Jesus forgave His executioners, can you forgive those who hurt you? Try seeing them the way Jesus saw those who insisted on His slaughter. Let’s follow Jesus’ example.

● Are you struggling to forgive someone? Decide to follow Christ’s example.

● Who do you know that is struggling with unforgiveness? Tell them this story.

Journal

What did you like in this story? What in the story challenges you or is confusing? What does this story show you about people? What does this story show you about God/Jesus/God’s Spirit? What does this story show you about yourself?