Luke 23:34

Observation

While being crucified, Jesus does not retaliate against His persecutors. He certainly could have called legions of angels to His defense. Instead he practices what He taught His disciples to do – He prayed for His enemies. He demonstrated His dependence on The Father in that He did not exercise His own authority to forgive but asked the Father to forgive them.

Application

Since Jesus prayed for the forgiveness of those who crucified Him, there is no circumstance which justifies me withholding forgiveness. Since Jesus was dependent on the Father, I must depend on Him as well.

Prayer

Father God, thank you for the example of Jesus’ sinless life. I ask you to remind me, when I am hurt or mistreated, of Jesus’ desire for even those who crucified Him to be forgiven. Forgive me for trying to live in my own strength. Help me to depend on you in all that I do. I am so glad that You are always faithful!