TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:42–43
DEVOTIONAL
by Stephanie Reloj
Nelson Mandela is a powerful modern example of someone who, like Jesus, faced mockery and misunderstanding but remained steadfast in his mission. Imprisoned for 27 years due to his opposition to apartheid, Mandela was often seen by some as a threat or a criminal. However, he held onto his vision of equality and forgiveness. When Mandela became the President of South Africa, he chose a path of reconciliation rather than retribution. Many were astonished by his capacity for forgiveness towards those who had oppressed him. Mandela’s unwavering commitment to justice and peace, despite the ridicule and suffering he endured, reflects the spirit of Christ’s forgiveness and strength in the face of adversity.
In our passage, despite the mockery and insults hurled at Jesus by the crowd, the soldiers, and even the rulers, this criminal recognized something divine in Jesus and made a simple, heartfelt request: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus’ response was immediate and filled with grace, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Jesus’ response to mockery and suffering teaches us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when misunderstood or ridiculed. The crowd saw Jesus as defeated because He didn’t save Himself from the cross. However, His true victory was in His sacrifice and resurrection, which they could not see at the time.
When we face mockery or misunderstanding of our faith, we can remember Jesus’ example. Instead of responding with anger or despair, we can choose grace and steadfastness. This doesn’t mean we won’t feel the pain of mockery, but it reminds us that our identity and worth are rooted in Christ, not in the opinions of others.
Like the criminal on the cross, we can turn to Jesus with our doubts and fears, asking Him to remember us. His promise of paradise reassures us that our faith is not in vain and that He sees and rewards our trust in Him.
REFLECTION
How often do we misjudge situations or people based on outward appearances, like the crowd did with Jesus? Do we sometimes feel mocked or misunderstood when we try to live out our faith? In moments of suffering or humiliation, can we still hold onto our faith and recognize God’s presence?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who remained faithful and forgiving even in the face of mockery and suffering. Help us to follow His example in our own lives. When we are misunderstood or ridiculed for our faith, please give us the strength to stand firm and respond with grace. Remind us that our true worth is found in You, not in the opinions of others. May we always look to Jesus as our model and find comfort in His promise of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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