Today’s Encouragement is, “And Jesus replied, ‘I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.’” Luke 23:43 NLT
You will be with me –
As these two men were dying an excruciating death, this amazing conversation was heard. One, wrongly accused and innocent, and one clearly deserving his execution. One lived a life of blessing, caring for others, healing, teaching God’s Love and wisdom, loving and performing miracles; the other, a relentless thief living a life of crime and selfishness.
This dying thief teaches us humility, repentance, surrender, and utter dependence on the Grace of God! He asked, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” (v 42)
He recognized his guilt (we all are guilty), Jesus’ innocence (He hasn’t done anything wrong), and, finally, Jesus as Lord (remember me when you come into your Kingdom)! This is faith, my friend! They were both clearly and rapidly dying… and yet the thief believed! He believed that Jesus was still going to come into His Kingdom! This is truly remarkable faith!
No good deeds done, no baptism, no other acts of repentance, no other words… just a desperate plea! “Jesus! Remember me!”
And Jesus responded with Assurance, Salvation, and Hope! “Today you will be with me in paradise!” Notice there was no waiting, no judgment, no condemnation, no penance, only a simple faith and God’s Grace. You will be with me! Today! In Paradise!
Father, Your Grace for us sinners, undeserved, unearned, is truly wonderful, amazing, and even irrational. It just doesn’t make sense to our minds! Yet, Father, like this dying thief, we believe in You! We trust that we, too, one day, will be with You – in Paradise!
How Love Wins (Thief)
Steven Curtis Chapman
Today’s Encouragement 