Today’s image is by Libby Davies
Prayer & reflection by Jo Hossain
Jesus dies on the cross (NIV Luke 23:32-38)
32 Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. 33 When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. 34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 35 The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.” 36 The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar 37 and said, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.” 38 There was a written notice above him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? 41 We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” 44 It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, 45 for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. 46 Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.
Reflection
Take some time today to reflect on Jesus’ words as He was dying on the cross and as others were sneering at Him; “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” His cry here has relevance for situations in our lives where we may need to forgive. I believe it also for us in our own sin. Thank God for the grace He has shown you and I by sending His own son to die.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for sending your only son to die in my place. Thank you that He alone has paid the price for my sin and brokenness. Help me to understand how much you love me by looking at the cross. Amen
