Humility Without Fault: The Way of Jesus
Theme Verse
“Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’”
— Luke 23:34 (NIV)
Reflection
These are perhaps the most astonishing words ever spoken from human lips.
Uttered not from a throne, but from a cross — not to friends, but to executioners.
Jesus, bruised and bleeding, looked upon those who mocked and tortured Him, and His response was not anger or revenge, but forgiveness.
He didn’t say, “I’m sorry,” because He had done no wrong.
Instead, He spoke the language of divine humility: mercy for the undeserving.
Forgiveness was His “I understand,” His “I release you,” His “I choose love instead of resentment.”
“When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified Him there, along with the criminals.”
— Luke 23:33 (NIV)
He had every right to condemn — yet He interceded.
That’s humility without fault: bearing pain without blame, and extending grace to those who least deserve it.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
— Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
Biblical Scene
As soldiers drove the nails into His hands, He prayed — not for deliverance, but for their souls.
“Father, forgive them.”
The very people who crucified Him became the first recipients of His plea to the Father.
This moment revealed God’s heart more clearly than any sermon: forgiveness is not earned; it is given.
Application
- Forgive before being asked.
True forgiveness starts in your heart, not with their apology. “Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” — Luke 6:37 (NIV) - Forgive while it still hurts.
Jesus forgave during the crucifixion, not after it was over. “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44 (NIV) - Forgive as an act of freedom.
Forgiveness does not excuse sin; it releases your soul from its chains. “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” — Romans 12:21 (NIV)
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You forgave while they pierced You;
teach me to forgive while I am still hurting.
When others wound me, give me the courage to release them into Your mercy.
Replace bitterness with blessing, and resentment with peace.
May my words echo Yours: “Father, forgive them.”
Amen.