“The first word that Jesus uttered from his cross was a prayer for his enemies. The second word was an answer to prayer.” — Clovis G. Chappell
It Wasn’t an Accident
It wasn’t a matter of chance that Jesus was crucified between two thieves. Isaiah 53:12 prophesied it 700 years before: “Numbered with the transgressors.” Jesus was despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:3).
At the Foot of the Cross
As horrible as this scene is, let’s stand at the foot of the cross and listen.
One of the men, even in his pain, notices Jesus. Jesus doesn’t curse or condemn. He forgives!
This man reflects on his own life. He wasn’t just a common thief. He was a revolutionary and probably a murderer (the original word translated into English means much more than “criminal.”) This man deserved to die and he knew it.
A Strange Request
The revolutionary turns to Jesus and asks, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
Had the criminal met Jesus before? He is the only person to call Jesus by name.
Still, this is a strange request! We would have expected him to say something like, “Save us!” But, instead, dying, he talks about Jesus’ kingdom.
You see, they both wanted the same thing: to change the world. But they chose two different methods: one by the power of the sword and the other through the power of love.
Why did the revolutionary pray?
He didn’t pray because he was frightened – that was the prayer of the other man. What can we learn from his prayer?
He prayed because he was penitent.
He prayed to Jesus the King.
The prayer was personal. Do you pray for yourself? Some people are hesitant to do so.
This was a prayer of faith: not “if you come” but “When you come”
This was a modest prayer – he only asked to be remembered.
The Assurances of Jesus
Jesus gave assurance that life goes on.
Jesus gave assurance of abiding fellowship.
Jesus gave assurance of a heavenly home.
Jesus gave assurance of immediacy: “this day”
Jesus gave assurance of salvation.