One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us! “But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong. “Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. d ”Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:39-43
I have always found great comfort in this story of the criminal on the cross. He knows exactly who he is and how great his sins are. No one needs to spell them out for him. He asks Jesus to remember him when He gets to His kingdom and the Lord Jesus promises him that that very day, he will be with Him in Paradise.
Amazing grace lived out indeed! The criminal is clearly one who has had one messy life, and is yet promised Paradise that same day! He never made it to prayer meeting, church picnic, baptism, or even morning worship service. Yet, eternity is promised.
For those of us who have loved ones who do not walk with Jesus, this story of the criminal on the cross gives us hope. When I think of family members, of whom I have no idea what final prayer they may or may not have uttered before they found themselves out of time and at eternity’s door. This is one of my favorite stories in Scripture.
This beautiful example of the grace of God is seen in full colour here. The other thought I have though is this; if the criminal in this story had turned his heart to Christ sooner, think of the peace and wisdom he could have had throughout his days! That does sadden me.
May God restore hope in each of us where a loved one is concerned. Be encouraged, no ones’ life is so messed up that they are beyond hope or God’s reach. May God help each of us to speak words of hope and truth when we are given opportunity this week!
Dear Father,
Thank You for your tremendous grace and love! Thank You for what You did for this fellow on the cross. I pray for the loved ones in my life; may they turn to You and encounter Your amazing grace in the same way or even sooner so they can live with your peace and guidance all the days or their life.
In Jesus Name,
Amen