“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”
— Luke 23:34
These words are among the most astonishing ever spoken.
In the very moment of His torture—while nails pierced His hands and mockers jeered below the Cross—Jesus didn’t cry out for justice. He prayed for mercy.
He forgave in real time.
That’s not just divine—it’s the model of perfect love.
Christ didn’t wait for an apology. He didn’t require repentance first. He forgave freely, even as His enemies continued their cruelty. And He left those words recorded in Scripture—not as poetic exaggeration, but as a command for us to follow. His parable of the prodigal son reveals what it means to forgive.
So what does that mean for us, here and now?
Forgiveness isn’t a feeling—it’s a choice. It’s choosing to love as Jesus loved, even when we’re wronged, misunderstood, or deeply wounded. It’s supernatural strength in the face of human weakness.
And while it’s never easy, it’s always freeing.
When we forgive, we imitate the Heart of Christ. We tear down walls that separate us from others—and from God Himself.
Perhaps you need to hear this today. Is there someone you need to forgive this holiday season? Perhaps the next time resentment rises, you might remember Christ's words from the Cross. Let that prayer—“Father, forgive them”—become your own.
A Beautiful Way to Pray for Mercy
The Riverstone Bronzite Chaplet of Forgiveness is a powerful aid for anyone seeking healing and peace through forgiveness.
Made from earthy riverstone and bronzite beads, this chaplet helps you meditate on the mercy of Christ and ask for the grace to forgive others—and yourself. It’s a tangible reminder that every act of forgiveness draws us closer to the heart of Jesus.
Bring this chaplet into your prayer life and experience the freedom that only forgiveness can bring.
Order yours today from The Catholic Company.
