Real Hope: The Passion - Week 3Sample

Jesus And The Thief On The Cross

This might sting a little, but these two criminals represent us all. We read earlier in the book of Mark that both criminals mocked Jesus along with the crowd. Time passes, and one of the criminals continues to mock Jesus, but the other has a significant change of heart. It’s fascinating to read him ask if the other criminal fears God – Proverbs 9:10 says, ‘the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.’ This man fears God and now understands. The contrite criminal boldly asks of the Son of God: ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.’

Jesus responds with one of His significant ‘Truly I tell you’ statements, which show His divine authority and power throughout the Gospels. This is not up for debate; this isn’t speculative; there is no truer statement than what comes next – ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’

Dwell in this moment; don’t miss the amazing grace and love of Jesus towards this man and towards us. Stay with this truth. Fear God, acknowledge Jesus as king, rely on Him alone, and confidently enter His Kingdom – spending your eternity with Him in paradise.

Written by AARON WRIGHT