Our thoughts turn to Easter ”“ a day of remembrance for all our Savior sacrificed so we might live. Sometimes we can let the significance of this day slip through our hands because of familiarity or even the busyness which comes with the day.
In slowing down a bit and letting the Scriptures settle on my soul, the events that occurred at the Cross fell a bit differently.
As Jesus was on the Cross, Luke tells us the people stood by and watched as His garments were divided up by the soldiers. The crowd was indifferent to what was taking place.
They listened as the soldiers mocked Him and hurled their insults, the two criminals on either side also witnessed it all.
It is in the gospel of Mark that we are told, “Those who were crucified with Him were also insulting Him” (Mark 15:32, NASB). This fell new on me as it was noted in the commentary of my Bible (The Scofield Study System, page 1450).
One criminal had a change of heart. He realized they were both charged justly and rightly for their crimes. He noted, “But this man has done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:41, NASB).
What caused his change of heart?
Join me today at Woman to Woman Ministries HERE as we look at the thief on the Cross and his change of heart. We may even see ourselves in this familiar scene.
Image by Michaela, at home in Germany
Today I may be joining …
Joanne, this is so beautiful. I had never thought of the story this way, but yes I am the thief to – the one although a sinner, has a change of heart. May our hearts be for Jesus.
Deborah, until I read the portion I quoted by Ken Gire, I had not thought of it this way either. May His grace never cease to amaze us. Blessings to you this week!
You are so right. Familiarity and busyness often keep us from recognizing the significance of all God has done, is doing, and will do for us. Thank you, Joanne.
Joanne, this is so good. Jesus did nothing wrong, yet was crucified for my sin. Yes, He loved me enough to reach down and change my heart. May we praise HIm continually and love Him as we also show His love to others. Blessings to you! xo
Joanne, thanks for shedding new light on this for me. I hadn’t looked at it that way. And the quote by Ken Gire really gives a perspective to reflect on because it really is so true.
Visiting today from IMM #3