Daily devotional · March 27
Today in Paradise
“One of the criminals who hung there heaped abuse on Him. “Are You not the Christ?” he said. “Save Yourself and us!” But the other one rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same judgment? We are punished justly, for we are receiving what our actions deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” And Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.””
Two criminals hung beside Jesus. One joined the crowd in mocking him. The other rebuked him, acknowledged that they deserved their punishment while Jesus had done nothing wrong, and then made a simple request: remember me when you come into your kingdom. He had no time to be baptized, to do good works, or to repair his life. All he had was honest trust. Jesus answered with astonishing generosity: today you will be with me in paradise. This scene shows that salvation is not something we accomplish but something Jesus gives to those who turn to him, even in their last hour. It also shows that it is never too late to ask. If you or someone you love has been carrying regret about a wasted life, this story speaks hope. Today, pray for someone who seems far from God, and ask him to remember them in mercy.
Prayer
Jesus, remember me in Your kingdom. Have mercy on those I love who feel far from You. Amen.