Learning From Jesus' Final Words

 

"FATHER, FORGIVE THEM"

What did Jesus say? Upon being nailed to the stake, Jesus prayed:  "Father, forgive them."  Forgive whom? We find a clue in the word that follow:  "They know not what they are doing." (Luke 23:33, 34)  Jesus was likely referring tot he Roman soldiers who drove the nails through his hands and feet.  They did not know who he really was.  He may also have had in mind some in the crowd  who had demanded his execution but would later exercise faith in him.  (Acts 2:36-38)  Jesus refused to allow the injustices he had suffered to make him bitter and resentful.  (1 Peter 2:23)  Instead, he asked Jehovah to forgive  those puttign his to death. 

What can we learn from Jesus' words?  Like Jesus, we need to be willing to forgive others.   (Colossians 3:13)  Some, including relatives, may oppose us because they do not understand our beliefs and our way of life.  They may like about us, humiliate us in front of others, destroy our literature, or even threaten to cause us physical harm.  Rather than harboring resentment, we can ask Jehovah to open the eyes of those who oppose us so that they may one day see the truth.  (Matthew5:44, 35)  At times, we may find it hard to forgive, especially if we have experienced the gross injustices. But if we allow bitterness and resentment to take root in our heart, we hurt ourselves. One sister explained:  "I realize that being forgiving does not mean that I condone offenses. or allow others  to take advantage of me. It just means that I choose to let go of resentment." (Psalm 37:8) When we decide to forgive, we are choosing not to let negative experiences make us bitter. - EPHESIANS 4:31, 32. 

Next time: Learning From Jesus' Final Words - "YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE"

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