Martyrdom and Forgiveness

As we seek to be forgiven during Lent, are we willing to extend that forgiveness to others we think are undeserving?

From an Africa Study Bible touch point:

Augustine (AD 354–430), a well-known leader of the early church whose writings are often still read today, was born in what is today Algeria. He wrote:

People who are eager to be rewarded, who do not love their enemies, and who do their best to avenge themselves, will not pay attention to the example of our Lord. When they read that he said from the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing,” they respond, “Of course Jesus could say that because he was the Son of God.” 

But like Paul, we are to imitate Christ. Did Jesus really mean this when He forgave those who were killing Him? Of course He meant it. And if you think it is asking too much of you to imitate your Lord, look at the example of Stephen, your fellow servant. Stephen loved his enemies. While he stood up to pray for himself, he knelt down to pray for them. Clearly, he fulfilled Christ’s command to “love your enemies”. He proved to be a true imitator of the Lord and a perfect disciple of Christ. Jesus, while hanging on the cross, said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Stephen, when almost buried under the stones being thrown at him, shouted, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin!”

Oh, what a disciple of our Lord! The first martyr of Christ followed the example of the Master. He prayed for the godless. He prayed for the blasphemers. He prayed for those who were stoning him.

Today: 

The news is filled with stories of violence caused by terrorists, armed robbers, war-mongers, and others. Our first instinct is seldom concern for their eternal destiny. But Jesus showed He cared even for violent people and thieves. Today, listen to the news. When you hear about a violent incident, what is your attitude toward the perpetrators? Pray for the victims as well as the spiritual condition of the attackers.