REMEMBER ME

On that fateful day when the sinless 'Lamb of God' was sacrificed on your behalf, the cross became a symbol of Christ's faithfulness to His Father, His boundless love for sinners, and His victorious words 'It is finished'. The grave could not hold Him and redemption is yours for the claiming. 

Today, we'll turn our attention to the Biblical account of the two men crucified with Jesus ...

And there were also two other, malefactors, led with Him to be put to death. And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Luke 23:32-33

To the crowd, these criminals appeared to be the same in almost every aspect. Both were thieves and murderers. Both were found guilty and sentenced to die. Both had been severely beaten and were covered in blood. Both were in excruciating pain as life ebbed from their body. 

But in reality, no two men could be more different. How they viewed the 'Man in the Middle' is reflected in the following verses ... 

And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. Luke 23:39-41

Then one of the most amazing interactions in all of Scripture took place. It has had a tremendous impact on our understanding of saving faith ... 

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise. Luke 42-43

The dying thief had nothing to offer. To express it in today's vernacular: he could not bring his record of church attendance, tithing, baptism, or good deeds. False religions often base a relationship with God on what you bring to the table.

That is a lie from the pit of hell. 

Your hope is found in only two things: a Savior’s grace and a sinner’s faith ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

A simple cry of 'Remember me' from a repentant heart is all that's necessary. 

If you feel that you are adrift in this world and your faith seems tenuous at times, please know that Christ is holding on ...  even when your grip weakens.