April : You Have What it Takes to Forgive

The April Gospel story is the Crucifixion of our Lord Jesus, as related in Luke 23:33-43.  Luke does not focus so much on the death of Christ, just saying "they crucified him and the criminals there."  Luke instead focuses on forgiveness.  His Gospel tells the story of the criminal who was forgiven and promised the kingdom of God at the last moment.  Luke also relates that Jesus asked the Father to forgive those who were crucifying him, because "they know not what they do."  

1. Do you have a story of forgiveness to share - if not your own, a story of someone you are close to?
2. Do you agree with Jessica (from the front page) that forgiveness is one of life's most important lessons?
3. In your experience, why do people sin? Do you agree with the author that past hurt and baggage can lead to larger sins?
4. Have you had the experience of growing closer to someone you forgave who was truly remorseful?