If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone, you treasure the last words spoken. You remember what was said. You hold on to those final words. For Lent in 2021, we are focusing on the last words of Jesus from the cross. What did he say? What does it mean for us? How do those words change us? This week, we focus on the word “salvation”. A thief on the cross called to Jesus, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42) Jesus replied with a word of salvation, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Invitation Prayer
Lord, I have a one word prayer today: Help! You are the Savior of those in desperation. What else can I say? I cannot get out of this. I have no answers. I don’t know what to do, even in the next moment. All I have is a child’s call: Help! Amen.
Confession
O God of salvation, have mercy on me, according to your steadfast love.
At discouragement, I lose heart. Give me patience and a steadfast heart.
At success, I want more. Give me gratitude and contentment.
At pain, I flee. Give me courage and fortitude.
At temptation, I give in. Give me faithful endurance.
At criticism, I get angry. Give me humility and growth.
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love.
Word: Luke 23: 43
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
Meditation
This word from Jesus’ dying lips is a word of promise and salvation: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.” These words are spoken not to a religious man or to a fine upstanding citizen or to one of His disciples. They are spoken to a convicted man, guilty of a crime. Jesus is the innocent One among the guilty, the Man among the thieves.
If we ever think that salvation is only for the “deserving,” for “good people,” we need only look at this scene. For God there is no such thing as a “lost cause.” There is no one beyond his power to save. He has come to redeem lost people.
You know someone who seems like a “lost cause.” Maybe you even think that of yourself. Jesus’ words to a criminal assure us that God’s grace is big enough even to include us. He’s the King of lost causes. Today, write a prayer for someone who seems to be a “lost cause.”
Lord, give me eyes to see “lost causes” today. Show me the way of compassion, and use me to bring your mercy to someone far from you. Amen.
Sending Word
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (II Peter 3:18)
*Today’s devotion is taken from It Is Finished by Jeff Cloeter, published by CTA – Christ to All at ctainc.com