Two Words from the Cross

It has been said that when a person is under enormous strain you will see their true character. Luke tells us that the loud, insistent and demanding shouts of the crowd prevailed and Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified. However, it is the word of Christ which prevails in the end, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Here the true character of Christ is seen! As he is placed under immeasurable pain and suffering, not only from the physical torture of his crucifixion, but the weight of the sin of the world as well, he prays for his executioners. As Isaiah says, " He makes intercession for the transgressors." In doing so, he not only reveals his own true character, but also the very heart of the Father - He forgives! One of the criminals hears this prayer and is transformed. Even in the midst of their suffering, what joy Christ must have known together with this criminal as he assured him, "Today you will be with me in paradise."
What joy we have in hearing these words and knowing they are as true for us today as they were for the criminal then, for it is The Word of the cross which is the power of God for those who are being saved.