The Thief on the Cross: A Promise of Paradise

Tuesday, November 26th: Luke 23:35-43

Bible Verse:

“Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

— Luke 23:43 (EHV)

Devotion:

As Jesus was on the cross, He showed love and forgiveness to a man who had done many wrong things. This man believed in Jesus and asked Him to remember him. Jesus promised the man that he would be with Him in paradise. Even though this man had made mistakes, Jesus forgave him because of his faith.

This story reminds us that no matter what we’ve done, Jesus will always forgive us if we come to Him and ask for forgiveness. He loves us and wants to be with us forever. When we believe in Jesus, He promises that we will be with Him in heaven, just like the man on the cross. What an amazing promise!

Questions to think about:

1. How does it feel to know that Jesus forgives you, no matter what?

2. What can you do to show that you believe in Jesus and trust in His forgiveness?

3. Why is it important to ask Jesus for forgiveness when we make mistakes?

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank You for forgiving me and loving me, no matter what I’ve done. Help me to always trust in You and believe Your promise of heaven. Amen.

Activity Idea:

Draw a picture of Jesus on the cross, showing His love and forgiveness to the man who believed in Him.

Full Bible Reference:

“The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.’ The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, ‘If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.’ There was a written notice above him, which read: this is the king of the Jews. 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.’”

— Luke 23:35-43 (EHV)