God’s Mission in Jesus' Death
Words from Jesus on the Cross
Luke 23:43
The Second Word
I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.
~ Jesus, to the thief on a nearby cross
Pondering Point
The word Gospel literally means “good news,” exactly what Jesus grants the thief on a nearby cross. The unholy thief joins the Holy One of God in paradise. By His sacrificial death, Jesus offers anyone who would believe in Him the same good news—with that same move from unholiness to holiness.
As Hebrews 10:10 says, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. That same letter of Hebrews quotes Psalm 95 and admonishes those hearing: Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts regarding God’s message in Jesus (Hebrews 3:7, 15).
Let today be the day that you join the thief in celebrating your place with Jesus in paradise – even if you don’t see that place for awhile 😊.
Words from Jesus After the Cross
John 20:26-29
Blessed
A week later Jesus’ disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then He said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Prayer for the Day
Lord Jesus, though not given the privilege to see You like the original disciples, I believe in You. I rejoice in the ‘not-seeing-yet-believing’ blessing You pronounce on me through faith in You. Let my faith not waver but grow stronger and stronger until the day I see You face to face in paradise. In Your name Jesus I pray. Amen.