The Repeated Prayer of Forgiveness

“The way this passage is written, some biblical scholars suggest Jesus repeated these words again and again throughout His crucifixion. “”Father, forgive them… Father, forgive them…”” When they nailed Him and impaled Him on the cross, dropping Him into that jagged hole, He was crying out, “”Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”” When they mocked Him—””Father, forgive them.”” When they spit upon Him—””Father, forgive them.””

He could have said, “”Father, condemn them!”” He could have called ten thousand angels to deliver Him. But rather than condemnation, He chose forgiveness. What amazing love! As J.C. Ryle said, “”As soon as the blood of the great sacrifice began to flow, the Great High Priest began to intercede.””

Jesus is our Great High Priest who was praying for us then and is still praying for us now. Somehow, despite the excruciating pain—having to lift Himself up on the cross just to get air to speak—Jesus found strength and courage to pray. These words of forgiveness echo through the generations and thunder in our souls today. They demonstrate that God’s desire is not to condemn but to forgive all who will come to Him.”