Forgiven

Luke 23:32-34,39-43

Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals – one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ . . . One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: ‘Aren’t you the Messiah? 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, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’

This week saw Peter Sullivan, who served almost 38 years in prison for the murder of a woman, has had his conviction quashed by the Court of Appeal after new DNA evidence emerged showing that he was innocent. In a statement read by his solicitor, Mr Sullivan said he was “not angry, I’m not bitter”. (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce809e3gd1xo)

The Lord Jesus died on a cross, an innocent man, which was recognised by a thief also being crucified (this man has done nothing wrong). Jesus was able to offer forgiveness to those who had made Him suffer (Father, forgive them), and a place in heaven (today you will be with me in paradise), to those who did not deserve it.

We have to ask for it (Jesus, remember me). Have you asked for forgiveness? Have you recognised who Jesus is? Have you received the guarantee of a place in heaven?