Words of Forgiveness

            Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Luke 23:34.

                The first word of Jesus from the cross is “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Jesus teaches us about forgiveness in the Lord's prayer. Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us - Matthew 6:12. When asked by Peter, how many times should we forgive someone, Jesus answered seventy times seven - Matthew 18:21-22. If we forgive people when they sin against us, our heavenly Father will also forgive us. - Matthew 6:12, 13.

              He forgives all our sins and remembers no more. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more - Jeremiah 31:34. Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases - Psalm 103:1-3. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace - Ephesians 1:7.

             Let us forgive others just as Christ had forgiven us. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you - Ephesians 4:31-32. But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you - Mathew 5:44.

                                                            

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Help us to forgive others just as You have forgiven us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.