Luke 23:42-43

Luke 23:42-43

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”.

 

The above text captures the end of the brief exchange that Jesus had with one of the criminals that was being crucified near him. The criminal acknowledges his just punishment and Christ’s innocence in verse 41 stating, “We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” I can’t confirm the life that this criminal lived but it’s probably safe to say, given his current circumstances, that he didn’t live a righteous life and had not professed faith in the innocent Man being crucified by his side. This event is so impactful as it captures the point at which a sinner, minutes from his own death, places his faith in the Savior. It illustrates and confirms Matthew 20:16, which states “the last will be first, and the first will be last.” This man chose Christ at the very doorstep of death, and Christ confirmed his faith, stating that he would be in heaven with him that day. And another incredible thing that resonates from this text is Christ’s response to the man. Even in the midst of his own agony, Jesus still remained steadfastly committed to his Father’s mission. He set aside the incredible pain that was coursing through his body and cared for another lost soul that came calling. If we were in Christ’s shoes, we likely would have been so consumed in pain and fear that we would have ignored the man or called for him to be quiet. Yet Christ did not…he responded in love, assuring the man that his “last minute faith” had purchased him a spot in paradise. We will all be at deaths doorstep someday…what a gift it would be that when that time comes, we would hear the Saviors voice say “today you will be with me in paradise.” Because of what Christ did, we have no fear in death…because of the victory he achieved, we have no worry about what is to come…because of his sacrifice and God’s unending mercy and love, we are truly at peace. I can think of no greater gift than the love of the Father and the promise of complete salvation! May we live that joy in our lives today. To God alone be the glory!