Friday, March 7, 2008
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Luke 23:42 Then he said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom."
WHOEVER *BELIEVES* IN HIM SHALL NOT PERISH
During Jesus' earthly ministry there were those who trusted in Him for help in time of sickness or distress who had trouble grasping the fact that He was far more than a Wonder-worker. On more than one occasion, people who came to Christ for help in matters earthly were led by the Lord to rest their hearts on His ability to save eternally through the forgiveness of sins. The repentant thief was one such person.
Scripture reports that at one point both of the crucified thieves urged Jesus to "save yourself and us." But Jesus' words and actions while being crucified worked on the heart of the one thief -- worked a repentant faith. He not only rebuked the other robber for mocking Jesus but then turned to Christ with faith in His power to save eternally. In fact, when the truth about Christ's rule comes clear for him (Your Kingdom!), rescue from physical pain and death are no longer this man's first concern.
We also have a tendency to give matters earthly first place in our relationship with Christ. But at the foot of His cross our faith regains its focus and we realize anew that nothing is more important than trusting in Jesus for the forgiveness of sins -- and
knowing He paid for that essential blessing with His very lifeblood.
Lamb of God for sinners wounded,
Sacrifice to cancel guilt.
None shall ever be confounded
Who on Him their hope have built.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 153:4)
