Sunday Reflection (June 25, 2023)

On the way to crucifixion, Jesus said: “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” In Romans Paul relates that we find forgiveness in a crucified Messiah who reconciles us to God and yes one another (Romans 5:6-11). The cross reveals that God’s character is not violence; rather, it reveals a way to end violence by not practicing violence. We are reconciled through the extension of forgiveness and mercy and kindness. Reconciliation is the establishment of harmony between God and us.

God has reconciled us, and we have received reconciliation, but where do we go from being reconciled? Do we only bask in being reconciled? Rather, may we keep proclaiming the message of God’s reconciling humankind to God through Jesus Christ. May we seek to be reconciled with another as a response to God’s reconciling us.