Jesus Saves

In today's reading (Luke 23:33-56), we see the crucifixion of our Lord. The soldiers mocked Jesus. They taunted Him and poked fun at Him, making a game out of it. Then they sarcastically said, "He saved others, let Him save Himself, if He be Christ, the chosen of God." (v.35). But what they didn't understand was, if Jesus saved Himself, He couldn't save us. Then read v.39-42 again. Here, one thief basically cursed him, "Some Messiah you are....save me!" But the other thief said, "remember me when You come into Your kingdom." And Jesus' reply was "Today you shall be with Me in paradise." One thief said, "Get me down!" The other one said, "Lord take me up." And He did. What is your prayer? Is it, "Take me down!" "Get me out of this mess!"--or--Is it, "Lord take me up....Up not only in heaven, but also up in a higher understanding of You and Your love.

"We have heard the joyful sound; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land, Climb the steeps and cross the waves;
Onward! tis our Lord's command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!