Luke 23:33-43
Jesus was crucified with criminals, an innocent man between two guilty men. In the midst of great
injustice, Jesus maintained a posture of mercy: “…Father forgive them; for they do not know what they
are doing.” (34b). The soldiers divided His clothes for their own gain. The people, rulers, soldiers and
the criminals, all mocked Jesus, saying, “…’If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!’” (37b).
Jesus did not defend Himself or cry for justice, but looked beyond injustice to see God’s plan. When
we face the confusion of injustice in our lives we, like Christ, can look beyond the confusion to see
God’s plan. Consequently, one of the criminals realized He was an innocent man and was able to
receive mercy before His death. We must not allow injustice to derail us from mercy!