(Perhaps my thoughts are too personal for a devotional blog today? I am struggling of the recent election and direction already being taking by the forthcoming administration.) This morning, I was struggling with Jesus’ words on the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).
As I observe my culture, I see “people calling evil good and good evil, appointing darkness for light and light for darkness” (Isaiah 5:20). (I can certainly be wrong in my discrimination of good and evil, but sometimes it seems clear.) And I say, “But, Jesus, they know what they are doing! Some are after power no matter what it costs; some in your Name, are ignoring all you said about becoming servants and practicing righteousness! OK, some are doing the best they can based on what they know. But, what about the others who know what they are doing!”
Then I thought about the Cross. The people who tortured and crucified Jesus and who callously cast lots for his clothes did not know what they were doing. That is obvious. However, it is too superficial to think, “I see. They did not know they were killing the Holy One, the Messiah.” No. Their ignorance went deeper. They were hardening their hearts, destroying their consciences/consciousness (of God). They were rejecting their high calling of being a creation in the image of God. They were usurping the role of the Creator to be a Presence in their lives. They were cutting themselves off from Life. And, Jesus, hurt for them – on the Cross!
Then I looked at myself. Woe to me that I can walk through much of my day without listening to Jesus. Woe to me that I am quick to judge others. Woe to me that I do not hurt for those who are turning aside from the One who loves them. Woe to me.
Lord, not only do I need to be closer to you, but moreover, I need for you to create in me a heart that hurts for those who are turning away from you. Amen.
