Jan, 23, 2014

Luke 23:  ⁴³ Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

Jesus is answering one of the thieves who was crucified with him.  The other one has mocked Jesus.  The second one is repentant.  He knows that he has done wrong, and that he and the other thief deserve punishment.  He also recognizes that Jesus is blameless.  He asks Jesus to remember him once Jesus is in his kingdom. 

So we know that the repentant thief went to heaven.  We don't know about many others who led much better lives.  No one really knows a man's heart except God.  The thief has done wrong, perhaps for most of his life, but he ends his life with understanding.  He asks for mercy.  Other people have done so many good deeds, but they do not have a relationship with God in this life.  Why would they expect to start one in the next?  Since my family has so many nonbelievers, I ask myself this question a lot:  Why not accept that you are not the final authority?  Why not ask God for mercy?  Their pride won't let them, but I always pray that they will find a way to change their attitudes.

Prayer:  Lord, I ask that those who I love might find a mustard seed of faith in their hearts.  I want them to humbly ask for mercy from You.  I am so grateful for the gift of faith I was given, and I pray for others to find the peace I have.  Make my life a path that shows others the way to You.
Amen