First Week of Lent: The Second Word – “Father forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”

Then Jesus said,
“Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”

Luke 23:34

Can you recall a hurt that has taken hold of you, one that you can’t seem to let go?

Have you noticed how it can drain your energy and attention? How it can turn you into the sort of person that you really don’t want to be?

As you mediate on the words of Jesus this week, consider how he invites you to follow his example.

Here are some thoughts and questions for your consideration during this week:

• Imagine this gospel scene. Speak to Jesus about his forgiveness for those who have hurt him.
• How does this prayer of Jesus influence the way in which Jesus dies?
• Most days we find something impersonal or someone anonymous who offends or disturbs or annoys us: the person playing loud music, the driver who cuts us off or who fails to signal a turn, the inconsiderate stranger who does something that grates on us. Can we find in Jesus a way to forgive and to move on joyfully with our live?
• Within our closest relationships, with family members, friends, colleagues, community members, we often find the source of our deepest hurts. Infidelity, slander, disregard, abandonment, insensitivity – all may trigger our anger and our desire for revenge. In the suffering of Jesus, we find another approach. Who has offended you? For whom, with the help of God, do you want to pray?
• Recall the thirst, the desire that prompted you to commit yourself to prayer during Lent. Continue to express that desire to God.