Holy Wednesday: St. Luke's Passion

When Jesus petitioned his Father to forgive his tormentors, it was unlike his petition in Gethsemane, when he also had added that if it be the Father's will. But not here, for he knew his Father's will was the same as his own: to forgive them, and indeed all mankind. The basis for this was the very reason the cup could not pass from him: he was by his blood redeeming the world. 

But then shall we sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. Here we see also the great distinction between the two thieves on the cross. One rails against Jesus, but the other begs his mercy, knowing he is rightly condemned. The penitent thief saw that Jesus, in spite of his dreadful appearance, was indeed the King of the Jews, and that, though he was dying here, his kingdom was indeed eternal. So must we see Jesus, and by this faith expect that we, too, shall be with him in Paradise. Sermon for Holy Wednesday is here.