Numbered with the Transgressors
Opening Thoughts:
At first glance when we read of the Lord’s crucifixion we might feel it was “insult to injury” that He was crucified between two common thieves. But in reality, He died next to the exact type of people he came to save.
Scripture:
Prophecy: Isaiah 53:9,12, Fulfillment: Mark 15:27
Devotion:
Jesus tells us in Luke 5:32, “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” More often than not, as you read the gospels you find Jesus in the highways, hedges, homes & fields preaching to the masses, because that was where the sinners were. We should not be surprised, then, to see that even in the middle of his ultimate sacrifice and show of love for mankind that Jesus welcomes to heaven the thief who calls out to him. The scriptures are true, “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10;13) Praise the Lord for His unspeakable gift!
Application:
This passage shows the effects the cross would have on people. Some will be confronted with the cross and their soul’s salvation and reject Christ like the thief who mocked and died and is tormented in hell this very day. Or, you can accept Christ’s free gift of salvation and spend an eternity with the Lord. The choice is yours. What will you do when confronted with the cross of Christ?
Prayer:
Lord help me to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading in my life to witness to others of your love and salvation.