The witness of our love for God can open the door of opportunity to share His love with those who have no hope. This was true for Jesus as many different types of people watched His walk to the cross. There was an angry, spiteful, mocking crowd jeering and cheering. There were common people, soldiers, Jewish leaders, Roman officials, and even two thieves hanging on crosses to his left and right. Jesus never lost sight of God’s will for His life during it all. This enabled him to see these people as being in need rather than accusers, users and traitors.
Matthew 27:44 records the following testimony about the two thieves:
“In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.”
Jesus was being ridiculed and mocked from all sides.
In this onslaught of abuse, Jesus’ heart was shining like the noonday sun. From his heart, Jesus prayerfully pleaded with God for the forgiveness of the very ones who were crucifying Him.
After His prayer, Scripture reveals that they cast lots for his clothes, the rulers sneered, and the soldiers mocked Him. During all of this painful abuse, Jesus never once lashed out with words of bitterness.
Luke 23:39 records that one criminal continued to hurl insults. He taunted Jesus by saying, “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!” However, the other criminal obviously had a change of heart.
Verses 40 and 41, “But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”
What caused this thief on the cross to move from insulting Jesus to speaking in His defense? I believe it was truth in action in the behavior and words of Jesus. In turn, the thief saw his need for God and his hopelessness without God. In Luke 23:42 this thief cries out, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Action Steps
In the fire of testing, it can be challenging to complete God’s will. Can you think of a time when God turned a pressure situation into an incredible witnessing opportunity? How did prayer play a part in your seeing and seizing this opportunity? Are you a living testimony of a life that is walking with God through prayer, no matter the cost?
Prayer For The Day
Lord, search my heart. Reveal all you want from me in my time, talents, relationships and responsibilities. O God, may I have a testimony that speaks of your supernatural love and glory! Through your eyes may I see opportunities and appointments from you, rather than obstacles and aggravations. O God, convict me each day to seek your face in prayer that I may know more of you and less of me. Amen.
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