Friday, November 1, 2013

Grace through Prayer

We are studying prayer in Sunday school right now.  Last Sunday this verse stuck out to me:

Luke 23:33-34
When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left.  Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
 
It's easy to think of our enemies as evil people who don't deserve our prayers, but Jesus set forth the example of forgiveness and compassion.  It reminded me of a change that I have noticed in Sissy's prayers.
 
She used to pray, "I hope everyone has a great day, besides robbers and bad guys."
 
Lately her  prayer has changed to, "Help robbers and bad guys to see what they are doing is wrong.  Help them to follow you and do the right thing."
 
To me that is her version of "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."  It's an everyday reminder for me to share the grace that God gives me with everyone, even my enemies.