Today, as we gather together to reflect on the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, I want us to focus on His first word on the cross. As we know, Jesus spoke seven times during His crucifixion, but it was His first words that set the tone for the rest of His journey to Calvary.
In the Gospel of Luke, we read about Jesus' crucifixion and His first words on the cross. In Luke 23:34, it says, "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'" Can you imagine the pain and suffering Jesus was enduring, yet He still had the strength to ask for forgiveness for those who were crucifying Him?
This is an incredible act of love and mercy, and it teaches us so much about Jesus' character. Even in His darkest hour, Jesus' thoughts were for others, not Himself. He didn't curse His tormentors or seek revenge, but instead, He asked for their forgiveness. Jesus' first words on the cross show us the depth of His love for all of us, even those who were persecuting Him.
In fact, this act of forgiveness was not new to Jesus. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently taught forgiveness and mercy. He forgave the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11), He forgave the paralyzed man (Mark 2:1-12), and He even forgave those who accused Him of blasphemy (Luke 5:20-21).
Jesus' first words on the cross are an inspiration to us all. It is a reminder that no matter what we are going through, we must always strive to show love and forgiveness towards others. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:44, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Let us also not forget the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In Acts 7, we read about how Stephen was stoned to death for his faith in Jesus Christ. Yet, even in the midst of his suffering, he cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). Like Jesus, Stephen also forgave his persecutors, and his testimony of forgiveness and love for his enemies has inspired countless Christians throughout history.
So, my dear brothers and sisters, as we reflect on Jesus' first words on the cross, let us remember the incredible love and forgiveness that Jesus demonstrated. Let us strive to show love and forgiveness to all, even those who may persecute us. Let us also take inspiration from the story of Stephen and countless other Christian martyrs who have shown us what it truly means to forgive.
May we all seek to live our lives in the example of Jesus, who loved and forgave us all, even unto death. Amen.
