Today, as we remember the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I want to take you to the cross… not just to Jesus, but to the two men beside Him.
The Bible says:
“Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with Him to be executed.” (Luke 23:32)
On that day, three crosses stood on Calvary. In the center was Jesus—the Son of God. On either side were two thieves. Both were guilty. Both were suffering. Both were equally close to Jesus.
But their hearts were completely different.
One thief looked at Jesus and said:
“Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” (Luke 23:39)
This thief represents many people today.
They are waiting for proof before faith.
The Bible reminds us:
“A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a sign…” (Matthew 12:39)
But the second thief… he was different.
The Bible says:
“But the other criminal rebuked him… ‘We are punished justly… but this man has done nothing wrong.’” (Luke 23:40–41)
And then he said:
“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42)
What a powerful moment!
Just faith… and surrender.
And Jesus replied:
“Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
This second thief represents another group of people today.
But here is the honest truth…
Even though they believe, they often forget Him in daily life.
The Bible warns us:
“Remember your Creator in the days of your youth…” (Ecclesiastes 12:1)
And yet many forget.
So the question we must ask this Easter is:
Because Jesus did not remain dead.
The Bible declares:
“He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:6)
And because He lives:
“If we are faithless, He remains faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13)
Yet Jesus accepted him.
Why?
Because salvation is by grace:
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… not by works.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)
But listen carefully…
Grace is not a license to forget God.
The Bible says:
“Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!” (Romans 6:1–2)
Grace is an invitation to come closer to Him.
But Easter is also a reminder:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart…” (Matthew 22:37)
We must remember Him too.
Today, Jesus is no longer on the cross.
And the Bible reminds us:
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:10)
He is coming again—not only as Savior, but as Judge.
So which thief are we becoming?
The one who demands proof?
Or the one who surrenders in faith?
And even if we are like the second thief—believing, but often forgetting…
The Bible gives us hope:
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)
Because He has never forgotten you.
Post a Comment
0Comments