Day 16: With Jesus as He Forgives
Take a moment to quiet yourself: close your eyes and take some deep breaths.
Pray this prayer or something similar in your own words: Jesus, help me draw close to you by seeing my suffering in yours and your suffering in mine.
Many people follow Jesus through the streets to the place of crucifixion. Some had called for his death. Some are followers who deserted him or are keeping their loyalty secret. Others are curious bystanders, and the soldiers are following orders. His opponents continue to mock him. Remarkably, Jesus asks God to forgive those who are crucifying him.
Read today's passage slowly, using all your senses to engage your imagination.
Prayerfully read the passage a second time. As you join Jesus in his suffering on the cross, what might his voice sound like? What expression do you see on his face as he says "forgive them"?
Perhaps you need the forgiveness of others, or need to receive Jesus' forgiveness yourself. As you read, consider placing yourself at the foot of the cross as a soldier, a bystander, or a follower, and hear Jesus extend forgiveness to you. Whatever your response, stay with Jesus in this moment, then talk with him about what this passage has brought up for you.
Reflection Questions
Personal reflection:
What do you imagine it was like for Jesus to forgive the very people who were causing his suffering?
Community discussion:
In your own challenges, have you found that you need to forgive others who caused you pain, or that you need forgiveness yourself? How might that struggle draw you closer to Jesus in his agony?