Lenten Devotion — Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.Luke 23:43

Have you ever noticed, after the second thief was welcomed into paradise, we do not hear the voice of the first thief again?  It is as if the first thief, the one who is angry and desperate, is silenced by the grace and honesty of the second thief.  I wonder, I wonder, does the heart of the second thief soften after he experiences Jesus’ kindness to the other?  Does he say, in quiet terms, I am sorry.  Can you help me too.  Jesus desires that none would be lost (II Peter 3:9).  I wonder, did Jesus reach back out to the first thief? ‘
Beloved, the one who forgave the second thief, and was ready to forgive the first thief, stands ready to forgive you and me.  All we have to do is open our hearts to him.  

PRAYER:  Gracious God, open us up to your grace and mercy that we may receive your pardon and blessing.  Amen.