Luke 23:33-43 (NRSV)
Read Luke 23:33-43 on biblegateway.com
Verse 33When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Verse 34Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. Verse 35And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" Verse 36The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, Verse 37and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" Verse 38There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." Verse 39One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" Verse 40But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? Verse 41And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Verse 42Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Verse 43He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Devotion
“If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Luke 23:37
The term “save yourself” is used three times in this passage. Kings are supposed to save themselves and their constituents. Kings are supposed to be strong, not indecisive. Earthly kings and powerful leaders, when they die, do it with pomp and circumstance surrounded by great public interest. God’s death had public interest, but an interest filled with scorn and fear. Fear of pain, suffering and death remains perpetually prevalent. No stone is left unturned in denying death. We forget that, because Jesus chose not to “save himself,” we are saved. We cannot save ourselves as the crucified criminal attests. That condemned man had more faith in the promise of the King than all of the disciples put together. Think about those circumstances that cause you to think you can “save yourself.” Make a list, and lay it at the foot of the cross.
Prayer
Lord of Lords and King of Kings, thank you for saving us from the power of sin and death and for making us alive in you. Cause us to put aside all fear and trust that you – King of the Universe – know what you are doing in our lives and in the world. In Jesus' name. Amen