7 Last Sayings of Christ on the Cross (Day 1)

For Holy Week we are going through the 7 Last Sayings of Christ on the Cross.

THE FIRST WORD

By Anthony Skinner

Art Scott Erikson

SCRIPTURE

“Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they’re doing.” (Luke 23:34)

DEVOTIONAL

Jesus’ first words from the cross are, “Father, forgive them…” Jesus had willingly surrendered his own divine power and so he looked to His Father (the one who holds the breath of every creature in his hands) to intercede for their forgiveness. In Hebrews 7:25 we read that Jesus is still interceding as he “always lives to make intercession” for all who come to God through him.

Jesus continued,“...for they don’t know what they’re doing.” Those who crucified Jesus had no idea of the depth of their wicked acts that day. However, Jesus' mercy has no bounds. Amazingly, he has the same unlimited mercy for those who know what we are doing and even for those of us who are repeat offenders. 

When the disciple Peter asked Jesus if he should generously forgive someone up to 7 times Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy times seven.” (Matt 18:21-22) The point of Jesus’ formula of “seventy times seven” was to help awaken Peter to God's unlimited mercy and grace (see Psalm 36:5).

QUESTION

How often do you ask for God’s forgiveness? Is it a part of your daily practice? Are you specific or general in your request?

PRAYER

God, you paid the ultimate price so I may be completely forgiven and have unbroken communion with you. May I never take your forgiveness lightly. Forgive me for my sins. Help me to accept your limitless mercy and grace. And help me to offer your limitless mercy and grace to others. Amen.

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