One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong. "Then he said,"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. "Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."
I had the privilege to read this passage at my younger brother's memorial service six years ago. After Mark died my sisters found his Bible, the one I had given him many years before, open to this passage. I am sure Mark, just as you and I often do, questioned if the past would keep him from Heaven.
The story of the two criminals who died alongside Jesus tells the story of Jesus' love and his amazing grace. Had both the men responded to Jesus in the way the contrite man did, they would have been gathered up with the Savior. This Good News hasn't changed any. If we confess and repent, we too will live.
One of the reasons Easter is such a special season for me is because of this truth. Every time a family member or close friend who was a believer, losses their battle for life in this world, I know it isn't the end. On Easter morning when we boldly sing of the truth of the cross I am reminded that I will see Mark again. As I was reading the scripture passage that day, the words, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." jumped off the page.
That's what's so good about Good Friday!
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