The thief

There is a story in the Bible that gets my attention EVERY TIME. It's about a thief. That thief found himself in a highly unique position.  He was on the cross next to Jesus.  The guy on the other side of Jesus hurled insults at him.  The thief took up for Jesus and then dared to make one of the grandest statements in all the world.  The story is recorded in: Luke 23:40-41.  The statement to Jesus, while hanging on the cross next to him was: "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom". In glorious splendor we hear the words of Jesus to the man, "today you will be with me in paradise".  That statement 2000 years ago gives hope to us today.  John would later record the promise for all:

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

This very moment we can have the same assurance the thief got that day.  We simply have to believe.  Praise God!