Look to Me, and be saved, All you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other (Isaiah 45:22).
How aptly this describes the experience of the dying thief! (Luke 23:32-43). All history had pointed forward to the cross of Christ. Now the event itself was being enacted before men’s eyes, and this criminal was a key witness. A model sinner, he was receiving a model punishment. We must conclude therefore that his was a model conversion. Yet I ask you, did he recognize Jesus as Savior? Consider his words: “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). What was the reply of the Lord?
He did not explain the atonement to this man, telling him his punishment was just, but that He, Jesus, was dying in his stead as a sacrifice for sin. To us it would have seemed an excellent opportunity to announce the truths of redemption; but no, He answered only, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise” (v.43). For the thief saw dimly who Jesus was: that through suffering unjustly, He would reign and have a kingdom.
Beholding at his side the Lord of all the earth, he cried out to Him, and that was enough. Amen!!!
Good Morning. Have a pleasant working week. Stay Safe and Blessed.
Credit: Rev. Newman
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