DAY THIRTEEN

MORNING VERSE:

“And they spit on him and took the reed and struck him on the head. And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him and led him away to crucify him.” (Matthew 27:30-31)

EVENING VERSE:

“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” (Luke 23:34)

MEDITATION

Have you experienced an injustice? Has someone you love deeply ever let you down? Ever repaid you evil for kindness? How did you respond? Perhaps even now you remember that you have put up some walls of offense towards loved ones who have betrayed you and let you down. Who have sinned grievously towards you. Your flesh is hurt. Your flesh demands justice and an apology. You have resolved that prior to offering forgiveness they must first repent and then change their behavior for some amount of time before you will forgive. Beloved, this attitude is earthly and is creating a prison around your own heart. Your pain is real, but do not exalt it above the Lord. Do not exalt your betrayal over the injustice of the cross. Hear the Lord’s prayer again. “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Forgive, as the Lord has forgiven you.