Famous Last Words – Forgiveness and Reconciliation
As we approach Easter, we reflect on the final words spoken by Jesus while He was on the cross. These words hold profound significance for us today, teaching us about forgiveness, reconciliation, and the choices we make in response to God’s grace.
The Weight of Our Final Words
Imagine receiving an email from your doctor with devastating news: you have only 24 hours to live. In those final moments, what would you say? Would your words be filled with fear, regret, or love? The reality is, when time is short, our words become more important than ever. This was true for Jesus as well.
Knowing He had only hours left to live, Jesus spoke seven powerful statements that summarize the most critical truths He wanted us to grasp. Last week, we explored Jesus’ first statement: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” From this, we learned that forgiveness is unconditional and unilateral—it is a decision made by the forgiver, regardless of the actions of the offender.
But this leads to an important question: If I choose to forgive someone, do I also have to be reconciled with them? Are forgiveness and reconciliation the same? Jesus’ second statement from the cross gives us the answer.
The Two Criminals: A Lesson in Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Jesus was not crucified alone—two criminals were executed alongside Him. These men responded to Jesus’ words of forgiveness in dramatically different ways.
Criminal One was defiant and mocking: “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!” (Luke 23:39) He rejected Jesus’ offer of forgiveness and refused to acknowledge his wrongdoing.
Criminal Two, however, was humble and repentant. He rebuked the first criminal, saying, “Don’t you fear God even when you’ve been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Then he turned to Jesus and asked, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” (Luke 23:40-42)
In response, Jesus said: “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Both criminals were offered forgiveness, but only one was reconciled with Jesus. This distinction teaches us a crucial lesson: Forgiveness and reconciliation are not the same thing.
Forgiveness: A One-Player Game
Forgiveness is a personal choice. It does not depend on the other person acknowledging their wrongdoing, apologizing, or seeking forgiveness. Jesus forgave unconditionally, and we are called to do the same. Even if the person who hurt us is not sorry—or is no longer alive—we can still choose to forgive.
Reconciliation: A Two-Player Game
Reconciliation, on the other hand, requires the offender to acknowledge their wrongdoing, express remorse, and seek to restore the relationship. Without these elements, reconciliation is not possible.
Looking at the two criminals:
- Criminal One rejected forgiveness, remained separated from God, and ultimately faced eternal separation.
- Criminal Two accepted forgiveness, was reconciled with God, and entered paradise.
This same choice is before us today. God offers forgiveness to all, but only those who accept it are reconciled with Him.
Applying This to Our Lives
We all have relationships that have been damaged by hurt. This brings us back to the question: If I forgive someone, do I have to reconcile with them? The Bible provides clear guidance:
- Romans 12:18 – “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” Sometimes, peace is best achieved from a distance.
- Titus 3:10-11 – “If people are causing divisions among you, give them a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them.” It is biblically sound to set boundaries and, in some cases, walk away from relationships that continue to harm us.
How Do We Decide?
If you are struggling with whether to reconcile with someone, ask yourself these four questions:
- Do their actions match their words? If they claim to have changed but continue to harm you, it may not be safe to reconcile.
- Would reconciliation draw me closer to God or pull me away? Some relationships may hinder our spiritual growth rather than help it.
- Am I called to closure or reconciliation? Sometimes, closure is enough—we can forgive without re-entering the relationship.
- What is God calling me to do? Ultimately, prayer and seeking God’s guidance will lead us to the right decision.
The Big Question: Where Do You Stand with God?
The two criminals represent every human being who has ever lived. We are all offered forgiveness, but it is our choice whether we accept it and walk across the bridge to reconciliation.
Are you standing on the side of forgiveness but remaining separated from God? Or have you chosen to accept His invitation and be reconciled? The decision you make in this life determines your eternity.
As we reflect on Jesus’ final words, let us choose to forgive as He forgave, seek reconciliation where possible, and walk confidently in the grace He has provided. Which side of the chasm are you on today?