Scripture - Luke 23:39-43Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, "If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us." 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, "Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong." 42 Then he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom." 43 And Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise."
Observation - It is amazing how in this tragic situation the different responses that the criminals had. The one was mocking and arrogant and the other was repentant and humble. The response to the humble man was amazing - he said "today you will be with me in paradise". I love how the way that we come to Jesus determines His response back. If we come arrogant and condescending, he will respond harshly - but when we come with compassion and mercy. Even when we are hanging on our cross dealing with our deeds. Even at the very end of our life - Jesus will come and tell you that everything is about to change. Repentance brings the mercy of God and the compassion of Jesus.
Application - I know that we all sin and fall short of God's glory. Some things in life seem irreparable and unchangeable. Yet when we come to Jesus with are heart of repentance understanding that we probably deserve the death sentence - Jesus is quick to forgive and deliver us from the treachery and the death sentence. He brings life in an abundant way.
Prayer - Father help me always to turn to you. I know that I am not perfect and probably make too many mistakes - but I ask your forgiveness today - let me live with you in paradise.
Application - I know that we all sin and fall short of God's glory. Some things in life seem irreparable and unchangeable. Yet when we come to Jesus with are heart of repentance understanding that we probably deserve the death sentence - Jesus is quick to forgive and deliver us from the treachery and the death sentence. He brings life in an abundant way.
Prayer - Father help me always to turn to you. I know that I am not perfect and probably make too many mistakes - but I ask your forgiveness today - let me live with you in paradise.
