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With Me in Paradise
As we continue looking at the statements of Jesus on the Cross, today we look at statement number two. "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise" (see Luke 23:39-43).
In one of His final interactions, Jesus extended eternal life. As He openly forgave others, Jesus sparked an internal transformation in the criminal next to Him. In humility, the criminal said to Jesus, "Remember me when you come into your kingdom." In the midst of great suffering and torment, our Savior did not allow His own pain and circumstances to distract Him from the cries of faith from a repentant sinner. Jesus knew that this was the very reason He was hanging on that Cross. Just as He was not too preoccupied to minister to this criminal, He is never too busy for our concerns.
Prayer: Jesus, thank You for being there to hear my cries for help. I cannot fathom how You care for me, but I trust Your Word and thank You that I can boldly come before Your throne and know that You hear my prayers. Amen.
Jesus answered him, I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise (Luke 23:43).
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About this Plan
The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (I Corinthians 1:18, NIV). The Cross of Christ is the central event of history, but it has also been a source of controversy and offense. In this stirring devotional series, Michael Youssef inspires our appreciation for the offending, redeeming, and very personal work Christ accomplished on the cross. These messages will ground believers in the basis of their faith while guiding unbelievers to a better understanding of the death of Christ on the cross.
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