Do you sometimes wonder if you are loved? Have you felt broken and empty? Have you done something you know is wrong and thinking you will never be forgiven? Have you heard the word of Jesus?
This world can be filled with difficulties. We may feel abandoned at times. Those we thought cared for us may turn their back on us. It may seem as though our very breath is being taken away from us.
Though we may feel unloved, there is One who loves us regardless of the situation. He knows what it is to live in this broken world. He knows how it feels to be opposed by the authorities. He knows what it is like to have people accuse Him falsely. He has taken the punishment for both His accusers and those who loved Him.
Jesus has been through the heartache of being abandoned. In fact, He has experienced it far deeper than any of us can imagine. The Father turned his back on Jesus as He went to the cross. Yet, Jesus asked the Father to forgive, not only those who were there, but us as well. He fully understood they were ignorant of what they were doing.
What does this mean for us? Jesus knew we would make some of those same mistakes. He knew we would fail at times. He still asked that we be forgiven. He loves each one of us enough to forgive us if we will only ask.
I pray we all turn to Jesus for forgiveness. I pray we understand that we are loved more than we know. I pray each one of us will ask for the forgiveness we need and accept His love. Know that you are loved. Know that Jesus took your punishment. Ask for forgiveness.
Luke 23:32-34 Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
Marty Pressey 