Merciful To The Last

It is not only the sin bt also the attitude of the sinner that Jehovah notes., (Isaiah 1:16-19) Reflect for a moment on the two evildoers impaled alongside Jesus. Both had evidently committed serious crimes, for one of the men admitted: "We are receiving in full what we deserve for things we did; but this man [Jesus] did nothing out of the way." The evildoer's words indicate that he knew something about Jesus. And that knowledge likely contributed to a wholesome change in his attitude. This is indicated by what he said next, this time imploring Jesus: "Remember me when you get into your kingdom." How did Christ respond to that heartfelt entreaty> "Truly I tell you today," he said, "You will be with me in Paradise." -Luke 23:41-43.

Think about that: Jesus' final statements as a human included an expression of mercy toward a man who had admitted to deserving the death penalty. How encouraging that is! We can be sure, then, that both Jesus Christ and his Father, Jehovah, will compassion toward all who manifest true repentance, regardless of their past deeds. -Romans 4:7.

Awake! 2008