Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always continue in the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 23:17

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Today we continue our Holy Week journey. The words from Luke are those of Jesus as he is dying on the cross and watching some of the observers cast lots for his clothing and hearing these and other people mock him. Although his followers had been told in many ways that Jesus would die and rise again, it must have been terrifying to see what was happening to their beloved leader. After all, those in charge of this travesty wrought on Jesus were all-powerful in the eyes of the ordinary people watching with dread and helplessness. Jesus was man and God. He felt every wound, every derogatory comment, every demeaning action. Judas betrayed Jesus; Peter denied Jesus. Yet Jesus included all, even Judas and Peter, when he said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”

Life brings fears and doubts for one and all. Yet we are warned to keep our eyes on Jesus and to know that our faith and the fear of the Lord is sufficient. We look forward to glorious Easter, because we know that we are saved by the knowledge of his resurrection to save us from our sins. Thanks be to God for this wonderful gift!

Dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, We thank you that this Holy Week gives us renewed hope, because we know that in remembering your death we are also looking forward to your resurrection. Help us to stay focused on you and the grace you have bestowed on your children through this incredible gift. Amen.

Florence Smallfield