“Father, forgive them, they do not know what they are doing.” This word from Jesus is an amazing word. By it, He is making peace with all humanity through forgiveness. Forgiveness is the key component of peacemaking. Without this, we cannot be reconciled to each other. Giving forgiveness is one way we are like Jesus. Our world is estranged from each other and our Father. We are agents of mercy. We are priests announcing that forgiveness of sins has already been declared. We invite hearers to receive it. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Because we have seen it in the Son, we as God’s sons and daughters reflect the family of God by practicing forgiveness and peacemaking.
