Jesus, remember me
Day 483, Sunday, Dec. 7
Luke 23:26 – Chapter 24
Of all the people Jesus encounters in the last two days of his life—family and friends, disciples, religious leaders and high government officials—some of the most reassuring words he speaks are directed at a criminal being crucified on a cross next to him.
One of the two criminals insults him, but the other one speaks a sentence that could be a prayer for any of us, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Jesus responds with words that bring hope to us all: “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

Next week we will begin reading from the book of Acts, which is a continuation of the book of Luke, written by the same author.
The words of Jesus of 24:46-49 can be read as a look ahead to what will happen in Acts. “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
Tune in next week for what comes next.

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Sunday meditation

Psalms 37:34-40
Hope in the Lord and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it.
I have seen a wicked and ruthless man flourishing like a luxuriant native tree, but he soon passed away and was no more; though I looked for him, he could not be found.
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. But all sinners will be destroyed; there will be no future for the wicked.
The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.

Prayer focus
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.