“And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.” (Luke 23:34, ESV)
Jesus did not say “Forgive them Dad, just let this go.” He certainly did not convey the idea what they had done / were doing was “okay.” It was not okay, AT ALL.
Hear him saying: Father, have mercy on them – they have no idea how great their sin is – they have no idea that their sin places me here nailed to this cross – they do not understand that I must die be buried and then rise again on the third day to pay for their sin. Sin is serious business, there is no such thing as a little sin. Sin is anything and everything that is outside of God’s will and plan – it means we cease to follow Jesus and followed our own paths. Our path is ALWAYS the wrong path. Jesus’ path is EVER AND ALWAYS THE RIGHT PATH. May we each see sin as serious as God sees it. Aim our life for Jesus today.