prayers from the cross
Jesus, the prayer you prayed on Good Friday that came to my mind first this morning was your cry of abandonment, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” I thought of this one perhaps because I, too, have felt abandoned at times in my life. Then, however, I reread the account of your crucifixion in Luke and rediscovered two other prayers you prayed that day.
First, as they nailed you to the cross and divided up your clothes you prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” I am moved by your ability to forgive even those who do you harm. Truly you are a forgiving God. Truly you are a God of mercy and grace. How many times do I wrong you, abandon you, or turn my back upon you, and yet I can hear you interceding for me, “Forgive him, he doesn’t know what he is doing.” And, indeed, often I don’t. I live my life in ignorance swayed by the mistaken pull of others. Forgive me for my wrongs and thank you that you are so willing to forgive.
Your very purpose on the cross was so that I might be forgiven. Your blood dripping from the nails in your hands and feet, dripping from your lashings, your crown of thorns and the spear in your side–it splatters upon me, washing away my sins.
Second, the moment before your death you called out, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” Jesus, you succeeded in fulfilling God’s will perfectly. You gave up yourself for others. Teach me, too, how to give up my spirit, my will, my personal desires, and place them in your hands. I want to trust you enough, Lord, to offer my whole self as Jesus did.
I tend to think of the crucifixion as a sad day. And in many ways it was. But this day also represents fulfillment of God’s will. It represents forgiveness and grace. It represents hope for all humanity. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Amen.
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