Re:Verse reading–Luke 23:1-27, 32-49 (day one)
“We are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.”–v 41.
Traditionally we call him a thief. The word actually means “evil doer, so murder, robbery or kidnapping are just as likely. His story lifts up the grace of God. Mercy “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:23) Patient God. Long-suffering. Pursuing a man to the door of death.
Marvelous miracle! In the chaos and pain of crucifixion, this man still has the perception ( gift from God) to perceive his own sinfulness and the perfection of Christ. As God opened His eyes, he called out to Christ in saving faith.
The Puritans said of this death-bed conversion, “To keep us from despair there is one story in the Bible, but to keep us from presumption there is only one.”
I must not delay! When He comes near, I must receive Him. Today is the day. Now is the moment.
It is amazing to see that the criminal who hung on the cross with Jesus also recognized that they were punished justly, for they were getting what their deeds deserve and that Jesus did not do anything wrong!
Jesus took on our sins as His own sins and died for our sins so we could receive eternal life. Jesus is a loving, gracious, merciful, and patient son of God! We all are sinners and deserve nothing! But we were saved because of God’s grace and mercy.
I do too! When He is near, I must receive Him! It is a smart decision!