A Gracious Response

A Gracious Response

Bible: Luke 23:32-49

Reading

Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing (V.34)

My friend Jess showed up at our Bible study with bright red hair We were surprised to say the least! It was such a loud statement which didn’t seem to match her personality.

No one mentioned her new look to start, but then Jess told us about her last hairstylist appointment The hairstylist had been upset about a family problem She hadn’t really been paying attention to what she was doing—and instead of giving Jess soft highlights, she turned her head red! She had tried to fix the problem, but nothing had worked.

Jess had every right to walk away without spending a penny, but she decided to pay without making a fuss about the stylist’s bad service.

For me, this is a reminder (although a tiny one by comparison!) of the attitude Jesus showed towards those who crucified Him Instead of being angry or hating them, he prayed, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing” (LUKE 23:34).

Jesus could have reminded the sneering soldiers of His true identity He could have silenced the laughing crowd by calling an army of angels to His side Instead, He answered their insults with grace.

Being gracious isn’t about letting people use us, hurt us or get away with anything they want But when we are wronged, we can still follow Jesus’ example and offer forgiveness.

GOD GIVES US EVERYTHING WE NEED TO STAND FOR HIM.

Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries