One could argue that the people who shouted “crucify” and stood around mocking Jesus as He hung on the cross rank amongst the worst of sinners. Yet, Jesus asked His Father to forgive them right there in that moment. The religious leaders of the time made it their mission to take Him down. But He loved them anyways. As Pastor Ray points out in today’s message, this is a beautiful reminder of the extreme nature of God’s love. There is no sin that is too great for Him to forgive.

God blessed Israel and built their nation to be a light to the world. He set apart abundant blessings for them and gave them guidance through Scripture and the Prophets. Yet they continuously missed it. They failed to recognize His blessings and reflect His goodness to the world. As Pastor Ray warns us in today’s message, we can easily make the same mistake. God has been gracious and kind to us, and it is our responsibility to reflect His great love and kindness to the world around us.