Love Devotional, Day 1
The Ultimate Act of Love
Scripture: Luke 23:32-34 (NLT)
“Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with him. When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.’”
Reflection:
The cross wasn’t just a place of physical pain; it was a place of public humiliation. Jesus, though innocent, chose to hang there, suffering in silence. He wasn’t high above the crowd, as we might imagine. He was close enough to hear their mocking, feel their spit, and endure their insults. In this moment of deep suffering, He did something extraordinary—He prayed for His enemies, asking the Father to forgive them.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to love like You. When I am wronged or hurt, give me the strength to respond with forgiveness, not bitterness. Help me to pray for those who hurt me, as You did.