Two ways – two ends (4) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Luke 23:41-43

Two ways - two ends (4)
The Roman governor Pilate had repeatedly testified that Jesus was innocent and had done nothing worthy of death (cf. vv.4, 14, 15 & 25). The witness of the robber on the cross went even further: "This man has done nothing wrong." This was an announcement testifying that Jesus was entirely sinless. Nothing in His life had been out of place.
The request of the unbelieving robber was uncouth and contemptuous. "Save yourself and us." His pathway could only end in perdition.
The robber who had found faith, on the other hand, made a modest request: "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom." His request shows that he grasped something that only a believer can understand: Jesus hung helpless there on the cross, but He would return as a king to establish His kingdom on this earth.
The final moments of this former robber proved to be ones in which he gave evidence of more works of faith than many a one who found faith early in life, but whose spiritual life cooled off. The Lord appreciated that man's testimony and promised him not only a place in His kingdom, but that he would be with Him in paradise that very day. For Jesus it was no shame to enter paradise with a robber following Him, just as today He is not ashamed of all who believe in Him.
(conclusion)
Today's reading: 2 Timothy 2