Luke 23:39-43

“He replied, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.’” vs. 43

Followers of Jesus trust that death is not the end and that their journey of discipleship extends beyond the space and time bound existence of this world. Since words do not exist to adequately describe that new life, each person will likely use one of the many metaphors available from scripture to provide an image for their yearning. For some death is like a sleep from which they will be awakened by trumpets on the last day to greet their returning Lord. While there is a strong appeal to the credal orthodoxy of such a view, many others prefer the immediacy promised in Luke’s words, “Today you will be with me in Paradise.” The comfort of this promise is undeniable. Death is such a cold and relentless enemy and to claim immediate victory in its presence brings enormous peace and blessed relief. And surely we are not wrong in our assertion! Our loved ones are with Jesus! We can’t explain that in rational, scientific terms but we know in our hearts and in our minds that it’s true. There is no more pain, no more tears, no more stress or anxiety, no more depression….only peace! Beautiful sweet peace! We can debate about what happens when we die…it’s natural to try to understand. But when words fail us, the truth remains! There is rest and peace with King Jesus, now and forever!

Thought for the Day: What is my favorite image of heaven?