Part 5
Hello ,
“Father,
forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” — Luke 23:34
There is a kind of strength that speaks loudly.
And then there is the strength displayed on the cross.
Jesus did not defend Himself. He did not retaliate. He did not call down power to stop what was happening.
He absorbed it.
That kind of restraint is not weakness. It is control at the
highest level.Because He wasn’t reacting to the moment— He was fulfilling the mission.
And even in the midst of pain, He spoke forgiveness.
Not after.
Not once it was
over.
In it.
That challenges something in us.
Because our instinct is to justify, defend, explain, or retaliate when we are wronged.
But Jesus reveals a different path.
One where forgiveness is not dependent on apology.
Where peace is not dependent on fairness.
Where obedience is not interrupted by pain.
The cross was not just about suffering.
It was about purpose held steady under pressure.
And the silence of Jesus in those moments wasn’t empty.
It was full of resolve.
Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is not react.
Not because it doesn’t matter—but because you understand something greater is at work.
Musical Reflection: What Will You Do
Have a great day and God bless!
Pastor Mike / The Open
Word
