April 7

From Pastor Gary…

Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise. (Luke 23:43)

Scripture tells us that two criminals were executed with Jesus. One taunted Jesus; “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us.” But the other sought mercy. “We are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man had done nothing wrong.” Then he said; “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” With true repentance, the sinner asks for mercy from the one who knew no sin. The fact is, like the men on the cross, we are sinners and deserve what is due us. That is the Law. But the one who died on the cross for us, brings mercy and forgiveness. Through his death, he brings life. This is the Gospel. The Law condemns, the Gospel saves. Jesus then spoke words of salvation to the repentant criminal; “Truly I say to, today you will be with me in paradise.” Jesus came to restore that which was lost. Paradise was lost by the sin of the first Adam and is restored by Christ to those who believe His Gospel message.

​Gospel verse for today:
Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God. (John 6:68-69)