Thoughts for another day

November 25, 2008.

Today's verse: Lk. 23:34. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

How many times have I felt like uttering the verse, Father forgive. Perhaps, I need to say:

Father, forgive them who hate me and do me wrong,
Father forgive them, who bring obstacles in my path,
Father forgive them, who rejoice when I fall or when I suffer,
Father forgive them, who vigorously plan my destruction.

Father forgive them, who envy and molest every joy I possess,
Father forgive them, when their slander makes my life mournful,
Father forgive them who day in and day out mock me and abuse me,
Father forgive them who testify wrongly about me.

Father forgive them that curse me without reason,
Father forgive them that fashion weapons to destroy me,
Father forgive them who live to time after time, thwart my every plan,
Father forgive them if they are unable to look at the peace I possess.

You know Father, it’s so easy to curse, to revile, to bear grudge and anger. To desire destruction of everyone who falls in any of the above category. My human nature seethes when I am wronged and cries for vengeance. But like Your Holy son O Father, I too shall not look at the dirt of the world which creates poison in my heart; rather I will look at Your countenance and become radiant. And just like Jesus’ radiant face on the cross at Calvary uttered the above words, I too by the Grace you give me shall say, Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.