Luke 23 - 5.3.24
Scripture: Luke 23:38-43 NIV
”There was a written notice above him, which read: This is the King of the Jews. 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.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”“
Observation:
Jesus, who changed the world one person at a time, was on the cross dying for our sins between two criminals. Pilate had hung a sign above his Head that stated, “This is Jesus King of the Jews.” One of them hurled insults at him. Interestingly he did refer to Jesus as the Messiah. Then asked why He wasn’t saving Himself and them too. The truth is Jesus was leveling his request up. He was actually saving them in a more complete way. The other criminal rebuked that man and asked Jesus to remember him when he came into his kingdom. This man acknowledged Jesus as well and had faith that Jesus would be returning to His Kingdom. Jesus saw that faith and told him that today he would be with him in paradise. Jesus was still touching lives on the cross.
Application:
So many great truths in these verses. This is the scripture that encouraged me when my grandpa passed away. On his deathbed he could receive Jesus. He made prayer hands when he couldn’t speak. It was about an hour before he passed. I prayed for him and he appeared to see something and was reaching toward the ceiling of his room. God gave me assurance grandpa was entering paradise.
Reading this today what stood out to me was Jesus saw the eternal need. He knew it was more vital than the instant one. He withstood insults and even worse on the cross so that all who call on Him, as the thief did, can spend eternity with Him in God’s presence in Paradise. The thieves died that day. We know one’s eternity, more amazing than we can imagine, was just beginning.
I want to never give up hope. I want to consider if my meeting someone’s instant want or need is going to help them reach their most urgent need, salvation.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for all you did for my salvation. You endured so much and I can never repay you.
Just like the thief hurling insults sometimes what I think is best isn’t.
Please help me trust you.
Then, as I am your hands and feet to this world, please help me keep going when times are tough. I choose to seek what is the best action to take as I step out to help others. Saving someone from a problem may help temporarily. However, I want to remember that tough things and sacrifice bring eternal results far beyond what I can see. Paradise will be incredible. Until I get there, I look forward to being amazed at all you will do through those who love you and walk in your will.
Amen
- Cindy Howard
