Not so long after God delivered Israel from Egypt—about 4 months?—the people rebelled and asked Aaron to make them a golden calf. Their sin was catastrophic, and God wanted to destroy them all for breaking his commandments. Moses interceded and God spared most of them.

Jesus prayed for sinners while on the cross (Luke 23:32-34). It is beyond astounding to me that Jesus prays for those killing him: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.” It has long been my conviction that we do not understand how much our sins and judgments hurt other people.

My prayer this morning is simple: “Holy Father, forgive us, for we know not what we are doing. Help us to be humble and guide us as we seek to love all persons well. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”