Crucified with Criminals | Rev. Brooke Hartman

Jesus doesn’t seek torture and death, but neither does he shy away from it when he realizes it is the only way to stay true to his message and his mission. On the cross he encounters two criminals and gives them the opportunity to repent. To the criminal who chooses to repent, Jesus says, “You will be with me today in paradise.” In his greatest moment of pain, Jesus was still concerned for someone society had given up caring about a long time ago. We might find Jesus’ offer of salvation to a criminal to be offensive, but if there isn’t room for that thief on the cross beside Jesus in heaven there isn’t room for any of us. None of us make it on our own merits. The only reason any of us make it is Jesus’ sacrifice.

Scripture - Luke 23:32-43