Day 20 - 40 Days of Prayer - Paul Luthman

When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals – one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:33-34

Have you ever played (as a child or as a parent) that little game “How much do I love you?” You answer “Thiiiis much!” as you spread your arms wide.

That is what Jesus did on the cross – stretched out his arms and said “I love you thiiiis much!”

So you do it now.
· Stretch out your arms as wide as you can and say out loud “Jesus, I love you thiiis much!”
· Now mentally picture each member of your family. Stretch out your arms as wide as you can and say “I love you thiiis much!”
· Visualize specific people…….your pastor, Session members, attendees at your church. Stretch out your arms as wide as you can and say “I love_______ thiiis much!”

Are you arms tired yet? Think about how long Jesus’ arms were spread on the cross.

And when you get to Minneapolis for General Assembly, actually DO it: walk up to other commissioners, even after - especially after - you have disagreed, throw your arms open as wide as you can and say “I love you, thiiis much.”

If Jesus could do it for you, you ought to be able to do it for someone else, right?

Prayer:
Incredible, self-sacrificing God, how could you let your son die for me?
Incredible, self-sacrificing Christ, what made you go along with this ludicrous scheme?
It is not in me to understand.
I cannot fathom such love and self-giving.

I do know, though, that somehow, someway, this one who stretches out his arms,
Does embrace me;
Loves me;
Forgives me;
Cleanses me;
Renews me.

Praise be to you, O God. Amen

Paul Luthman
Executive Presbyter
Flint River Presbytery