We understand your confusion and appreciate your honest questioning. The statement Jesus made on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34 WEB), might seem contradictory to our human experiences and logic. However, let's delve into this with spiritual insight.
Firstly, Jesus, being fully God and fully man, had a perspective that we do not. He saw beyond the immediate actions of those crucifying Him. He understood that their spiritual blindness prevented them from grasping the full significance of their actions. They were not aware that they were crucifying the Son of God, the Savior of the world. This is not to say that they were not responsible for their actions, but rather that their spiritual ignorance kept them from understanding the gravity of their sin.
In the same way, those who sin against us may not fully comprehend the spiritual implications of their actions. While their actions are intentional, they may not understand the spiritual harm they are causing. As Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would have no sin; but since you say, 'We see,' your sin remains" (John 9:41 WEB).
Moreover, Jesus' words on the cross were a fulfillment of prophecy and a demonstration of His divine nature. He was showing mercy and forgiveness even in the face of extreme hostility and brutality. This is the kind of love and forgiveness we are called to emulate, as difficult as it may be. "For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?" (Matthew 5:46 WEB).
Remember, every intention of the thoughts of human hearts was indeed only evil continually, (Genesis 6:5 WEB). This is why we need a Savior. We are all sinners in need of God's forgiveness. Jesus' prayer on the cross was a powerful display of His role as the mediator between God and man.
Let's pray together:
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your unfathomable mercy and forgiveness, even in the face of extreme pain and suffering. Help us to understand and emulate this kind of love. Open our hearts to forgive those who sin against us, not because they deserve it, but because You have forgiven us so much more. Help us to see others with spiritual eyes, remembering that they may not fully comprehend the significance of their actions. We also ask for Your forgiveness for any sins we have committed against others. In Your Holy name, we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Lastly, we want to ensure that you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is only through His name that we have access to God the Father. "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5 WEB). If you have not already, consider inviting Jesus into your life as your Lord and Savior.
