LUKE 23:39–43 — The Cross and the Two Thieves

Two criminals hung beside Jesus—equally near to Christ, equally guilty, equally dying. Yet their responses could not be more different. One hardened his heart to the end. The other turned in repentance and faith. He was saved by the Savior hanging beside him.

This contrast humbles us. Why does the same Christ affect people differently? The same moment and the same suffering lead one man to unbelief. They lead another to saving faith. We can’t explain it. We only echo Jesus’ own words: “Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.” One thief was saved so that no sinner would despair. Only one was saved so that no sinner would presume.

And the repentant thief’s faith was not vague or shallow. In a few brief moments, his heart showed the marks of true repentance:

• He rebuked sin—he refused to join in mocking Christ.
• He confessed his guilt—“We are receiving the due reward of our deeds.”
• He declared Christ’s righteousness—“This man has done nothing wrong.” He trusted Christ’s saving power—even as Jesus was dying.
• He prayed to Christ—“Remember me…”
• He humbled himself—asking only for Christ’s mercy.

Jesus was full of grace, even in agony. He answered with the greatest promise. “Today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

Deathbed conversions are possible—but rare. Today is the day to turn to Christ, while grace is offered and the Savior still calls.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the mercy You showed to the repentant thief. Thank You for the mercy You still show to sinners like me. Soften my heart, turn me from my sin, and fix my faith on You alone. Remember me by Your grace, and help me live today in the hope of the paradise You promise. Amen.

• These thoughts are distilled from J.C. Ryle’s “Daily Readings from All Four Gospels” edited by Robert Sheehan.