Two criminals were led out to be put to death with Jesus. When the soldiers came to the place called “The Skull,” they nailed Jesus to a cross. They also nailed the two criminals to crosses, one on each side of Jesus.
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don't know what they're doing.”
While the crowd stood there watching Jesus, the soldiers gambled for his clothes. The leaders insulted him by saying, “He saved others. Now he should save himself, if he really is God's chosen Messiah!”
The soldiers made fun of Jesus and brought him some wine. They said, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself!”
Above him was a sign that said, “This is the King of the Jews.”
One of the criminals hanging there also insulted Jesus by saying, “Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and save us!”
But the other criminal told the first one off, “Don't you fear God? Aren't you getting the same punishment as this man? We got what was coming to us, but he didn't do anything wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Remember me when you come into power!”
Jesus replied, “I promise that today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:32-43
There were two criminals that were crucified with Christ that day. These two criminals represent all mankind. One of these men insulted Jesus while the other one called out to Jesus for mercy!
In a real sense, everyone is crucified with Christ. We are all guilty of sin that makes us worthy of Hell. When we see Christ on the Cross next to ours we either rail at Him or cry out for mercy. If you are the criminal who shouts at Jesus and mocks Him when you die you will be with Him no more, forever. But if you ask Jesus to remember you when He comes into power, then you will be with Him in paradise and in Heaven forever!
In a real sense you don't stand at the foot of the Cross. Instead you hang on a cross next to Jesus. As you are dying for your sin you have a choice. You can curse The Lord or beg for His mercy! There really are no other options. Both criminals died that day with Jesus. One was saved and the other one was lost.
Today you are hanging on a cross next to Jesus. What will you say to Him?
"Lord Jesus, I thank You that You were not ashamed to die as if You were a criminal. I have suffered because of my sin, but You suffered to set me free from sin forever! Remember me when You come into power! Amen!"
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