Luke 23:27-43 — Jesus was a
king on the cross. His enemies did not realize the truth of the mockery, “If
you are the King of the Jews.” The political authorities also did not
realize what they wrote, “This is the king of the Jews.” On Palm Sunday
the faithful sang praises to their king – ‘Behold, your king is coming to
you.” In the gospel lesson there are various reactions to this king. The
people – they watched from a distance. They were mere spectators – v. 35. The
rulers – they were scoffers and cynics – v. 35. The soldiers – they mocked and
ridiculed – v. 36. Sinners – the offered prayers and petitions of penitence –
Vv. 39-43.
Jesus simply
prayed, “Father forgive them..” For forgive them for they know not what they
do.” Such patience is hard to imagine. But Jesus took this for He knew that
this was the only way to merit and win for us salvation. There was no other way
to save us. The cruel cross of Calvary was the only way out for you, for me.
There can be no other options. For us to receive the Forgiveness of sins, life
and salvation we must look only to Christ and Christ alone. Our own works will
not do. Our own will cannot sustain us. Only in Christ is there salvation and
life. As we look forward to the celebration of Christ the King Sunday remember
that Jesus has borne for you the cruelty of the cross and in that cross you
glory. For the cross stands as a sign and a seal of your forgiveness.
Collect
for Proper 29: Lord Jesus Christ, You reign among us by the
preaching of Your cross. Forgive Your people their offenses that we, being
governed by Your bountiful goodness, may enter at least in to Your eternal
paradise; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, One God,
now and forever.[2]
[1] Christ
the King, © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
[2] Collect
for Proper 29, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St.
Louis
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