The singing group Casting Crowns sings a song by thename of “What this world needs.” In that song they bring out some veryinteresting thoughts. This world doesn’tneed another one hit wonder with an axe to grind or another two bit politicianpeddling lies. This world doesn’t need another sign waving Super Saint who’sbetter than you or an ear pleasing candy man afraid of the truth. Then theynail it down; what this world needs is a Savior who will rescue, a spirit whowill lead, a father who will love them in their time of need. What this worldneeds is for us to care more about the inside than the outside. Whatchallenging words that tell us the bottom line is Jesus. This Sunday we willcelebrate Easter once again; how long ago when on that Sunday Morning early thetomb where Jesus had been placed was empty. Today that tomb is still empty; butbefore the tomb Jesus went through much and I would like to look at that day onCalvary. Get the picture Jesus is hanging on a Roman cross they have alreadybeat Him, spit on Him, slapped Him, said cruel words to Him. It was a bad dayto say the least; did I say bad day? Oh no, it was a good day for this was theday the Lord had made. Jesus begins topray and the first words Jesus spoke should cause each one of us to stop andthink.
Luke 23:33 And when they werecome to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and themalefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what theydo. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. The very first wordsfrom His mouth are words of pardon for His murderers. Man’s greatest need isnot health, food, clothing, housing, or a job. The greatest need of man isforgiveness from God. Without it we will be condemned by God tohell for all eternity. Do you see what we are being taught here? It would beeasy to understand Christ forgiving good people that had not slapped Him, talked to Him in a cruelway but that’s not what He did, He said “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Jesus looks out at the men who had just drovenail in His hands and feet and He asked His Father to forgive them. If Jesus iswilling to forgive men like that don’t you think that He would forgive you? Heforgave the thief next to Him; that’s what Jesus does He forgives and you and Ishould never forget that. He’s on the cross; He’s coming off and a surprise iscoming for those who guard His tomb.
