Recently we visited a historic site in Wales, in the west of the British Isles, which was originally a Roman gold mine. We climbed a steep hill from where we could see the surrounding countryside and get a feel for the ancient use of the area. We were surprised when our guide pointed to a neighboring hill and said that it was known as Crucifixion Hill. I started thinking about how crucifixion was probably not uncommon in the Roman Empire. Crucifixion was meted out to non-Romans who were criminals. Yet even at a time of such intense suffering and anguish, the Master, Christ Jesus, was able to forgive when he was crucified.
His supreme example of forgiveness is most impressive when understood in its context. He had been tried, found guilty by the Jewish council, and given to the people by Pontius Pilate, the Roman procurator of Judea, when they demanded his blood. Yet his only "crime" was to love his fellow beings, to heal them, and to teach them of the heavenly kingdom. For his alleged blasphemy he was condemned to be crucified. Yet at the height of his incredible suffering he said, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34.
Christ Jesus' example shows clearly that forgiveness is a vital element in the art of living— and, in fact, in our individual spiritual progress —and that an understanding of true forgiveness is necessary for all who profess to follow his brave and wonderful example. Jesus came announcing that God's kingdom was at hand. See Mark 1:15 . The ability to forgive is essential in our demonstration of the presence of the heavenly kingdom.
