This article is a companion piece to Pastor’s powerful sermon. Watch the full message below.
The Profound Choice at Calvary
When we think about death, it often brings a heaviness to our hearts. Yet, within the darkest moment in history – the crucifixion of Jesus – we find an extraordinary story of hope and transformation that speaks directly to us today.
Picture yourself at Calvary. Three crosses stand against a darkened sky. On them hang three men – Jesus Christ and two criminals. In this moment, we witness one of the most powerful demonstrations of God’s grace and the human choice between life and death.
“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.” – Luke 23:32-33
A Tale of Two Responses
What unfolds next reveals a profound truth about human nature and divine mercy. While one criminal joined the mocking crowd, the other made a choice that would echo through eternity. Their contrasting responses teach us three vital lessons:
1. Recognition of Truth
The repentant criminal demonstrated remarkable spiritual insight by:
- Acknowledging his own guilt
- Recognizing Jesus’s innocence
- Understanding Jesus’s divine nature
2. The Power of Repentance
In his final moments, this criminal made the most important decision of his life. His simple request, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42), reveals genuine repentance and faith.
3. The Immediate Promise
Jesus’s response shows us that it’s never too late to choose life:
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” – Luke 23:43
Why Some See and Others Don’t
You might wonder: Why did one criminal recognize Jesus while the other remained blind to His identity? The answer lies in the condition of their hearts:
“For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed.” – Matthew 13:15
The Choice Before Us Today
Just like the two criminals, we face a choice. Death may not be as imminent for us as it was for them, but the decision is equally crucial. Every day, we choose either to turn toward Jesus or away from Him.
Making the Right Choice
To choose life means:
- Acknowledging our need for salvation
- Turning to Jesus in genuine repentance
- Trusting His promise of eternal life
- Walking with Him daily
Your 7-Day Challenge
I challenge you this week to strengthen your intimacy with God:
- Spend 15 minutes each morning in quiet reflection with God
- Write down one way you see God working in your life each day
- Share your testimony with at least one person
- Memorize Luke 23:43
A Final Thought
Remember: The testimony of God is always greater than the testimony of men. Don’t let the world’s voices drown out God’s truth in your life.
“If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater, for this is the testimony of God that he has borne concerning his Son.” – 1 John 5:9
Like the criminal who chose life even as death approached, we too can find hope, redemption, and eternal life in Jesus Christ. The choice is yours – what will you choose today?
Join us at ICA Macau as we continue our journey of choosing life together. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.