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Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with Him. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on His right and one on His left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:32-34a)
They put the two criminals on either side of Jesus. Given all the references to Jesus as the King of the Jews, I suspect they were trying to make this look like a royal court—Jesus in the most important place, with His courtiers on either side. And all those who came to look at Him would play the role of people appearing before a king’s throne—come to pay their respects or to ask for something.
Of course this was meant to be a horrible joke. It was another way of abusing Jesus—and there was probably some anti-Jewish feeling too, not surprising coming from the Roman soldiers. But what they didn’t realize was that in fact they had set up a true throne room—where Jesus reigns as our King and Savior.
See it in your mind—Jesus with a cross for a throne. His crown is of thorns, and His courtiers are thieves. He has a nail through His hand, instead of a scepter in it. And His royal robes? His own blood—shed to cover our sin and shame, and to make us His own forever.
WE PRAY: Lord, You died and rose again for me. Help me to live as Yours, in love for You. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
- Jesus prayed for His enemies. Do you have enemies of your own?
- If so, consider asking Him to teach you how to deal with them according to His own wisdom and love.
- People visit courts to ask for help. What would you ask from Jesus today?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
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