'Father, Forgive Them"

Jesus perfectly reflected his Father's love in another important way-he was "ready to forgive." (Psalm 86:5) This willingness was evident even when he was on the torture stake. Subjected to a shameful death, with nails piercing his hands and feet, what did Jesus speak about? Did he call out to Jehovah to punish his executioners? On the contrary, among Jesus' last words were: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." -Luke 23:34.

Perhaps an even more touching example of Jesus' forgiveness can be seen in the way he dealt with the apostle Peter. There is no question that Peter dearly loved Jesus. On Nisan 14, the final night of Jesus' life, Peter told him: "Lord, I am ready to go with you both into prison and into death." Yet, just a few hours later, Peter three times denied even knowing Jesus! The Bible tells us what happened as Peter uttered his third denial: "The Lord turned and looked upon Peter." Crushed by the weight of his sin, Peter "went outside and wept bitterly." When Jesus died later that day the apostle may have well wondered, 'Did my Lord forgive me?' -Luke 22:33, 61, 62.

Peter did not have to wait long for an answer. Jesus was resurrected on the morning of Nisan 16, and evidently on that same day, he made a personal visit to Peter. (Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:4-8) Why did Jesus give such special attention to the apostle who had so vigorously denied Him? Jesus may have wanted to assure the repentant Peter that he was still loved and valued by his Lord. But Jesus did even more to assure Peter.

Some time later, Jesus appeared to the disciples at the Sea of Galilee. On this occasion, Jesus three times questioned Peter (who had three times denied his Lord)as to Peter's love for him. After the third time, Peter replied: "Lord, you know all the things; you are aware that I have affection for you." Indeed, Jesus, who could read hearts, was fully aware of Peter's love and affection for him. Yet, Jesus gave Peter an opportunity to affirm his love. More than that, Jesus commissioned Peter to "Feed' and "shepherd" his little sheep." (John 21:15-17) Earlier, Peter had received an assignment to preach. (Luke 5:10) But now, in a remarkable demonstration of trust, Jesus gave him a further weighty responsibility-to care for those who would become Christ's followers. Shortly afterward, Jesus gave Peter a prominent role in the activity of the disciples. (Acts 2:1-41) How relieved Peter must have been to know that Jesus had forgiven him and still trusted him!

Next time: Do You "Know The Love Of The Christ?"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002