The criminal that was hanging on a cross next to Jesus recognized something that would change the course of his eternal destiny forever. Who was this criminal? Didn't he deserve death and punishment? Isn't that why he was hanging on the tree? Most likely he was guilty of murder and many more crimes. Maybe he lived his whole life as a criminal and was finally caught and justice about to be served.
In the agony and pain of being crucified on a cross this criminal silenced the foolishness of the other criminal on the other side of the Messiah. 'Don't you fear God even on your death bed?' he said. 'We deserve to die and be punished for our crimes, but this man has done nothing wrong'. At that moment we find in my opinion one of the greatest examples of mercy and forgiveness in all of scripture.
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” (Luke 23:42 NLT)
And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43 NLT)
This criminal in his final moments recognized through faith that the son of God was being killed for his very crimes and sins. Though He did not deserve it, would you remember me Jesus in Your kingdom? Wow. Stunning. Awesome. Powerful. Eternal.
Jesus did not even require him to confess all the wrongs he had done. He did not condemn him in any way. He did not even judge him in that moment. He simply said that TODAY you will be with me in paradise! Does anybody get the significance of this? Does it motivate or compel you to change your thinking toward Christ and His mercy? What about the way you judge others or condemn them with your thoughts or words? We are not like Him.
He is tender. He is loving. He is merciful beyond description. He is slow to anger. He does not condemn. He is just and powerful. He silences death and fear. He speaks life and truth. He loves violently like no other. This demands attention. He demands a response from every living soul.
He who has loved much has been forgiven much Christ said. Do you know who he was speaking of when he said that? You can only imagine.
Kiss the Son.
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