In an Instant

Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. (verse 32)

Death by crucifixion was considered a demeaning way to die. That was surly the Roman leader's intent. The fact that Jesus was hung between two criminals was meant to belittle and dismiss Jesus and His mission.

This fashion of death is also a testimony to how He lived. Jesus could have changed anything about this day; He could have changed everything about this day, but He didn't. Instead, He died as He lived, in the company of sinners. And we can be confident that He would have it no other way.

One of the two criminals was transformed by Christ, right there on that hill. Sometimes transformation takes time, years even. We grow and change over time, and we learn to love Jesus and others as part of our transformation. But, as we witness on the day Jesus died, some are transformed in an instant. We too, can be changed on the spot.

This scene reminds me of a similar scene detailed in Mark 10. James and John were vying for a place of honor - one on His right and the other on His left. Jesus told them they didn't know what they were asking. Now, in Luke 23 there are two men hanging alongside Jesus. They both have opportunity to spend eternity with Jesus...only one chooses life over death, transformation over pride.

Every day we have occasion to make choices too. We can chose to follow Jesus, read the Bible and allow His word to transform us. Or can choose otherwise. Remember, in an instant it can all change.

Luke 23:32-34

Transformed Daily

As it is written:
“There is no one righteous, not even one;
11 there is no one who understands;
there is no one who seeks God.

If I look back on who I was twenty plus years ago, I would barely recognize me. When I share in a group, the old me, many cannot believe it. That is a good thing, cause if they found my words plausible, it would mean I have not allowed God to work in my life. Many of us can say the same, "We have been changed by God, we are a work-in-progress, but changed nonetheless. We will always be a work-in-progress. Not yet arrived but heading in the right direction most days.

Do you remember the turning point, the reason or motive for turning to Jesus and making changes in your life and behavior? Can you pinpoint the day or season when things changed for you? When transformation began to work in you?

Transform is a verb meaning to make a thorough or dramatic change in the form, appearance, or character. I think I can safely say that there was a definite change in character. My words became softer, as did my heart. Of course, this transformation did not happen overnight. No, it is still happening today.

I can also say the transformation was in appearance too. The scowl on my face lightened. My eyes must have reflected some of the peace and softness I felt. What about you? Where there physical changes when you allowed Jesus to transform you? Was there a jaunty bounce added to your step or at the very least, a smile lurking nearby?

Dear Jesus,
Please continue to work in my, to change what needs to change and to help me recognize those areas I will need work in. Thank you and Amen.


Romans 3:9-18