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He said to Jesus, "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus said to him, "Assuredly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." Luke 23:42–43 WEB.

As they hung there bleeding on the crosses they had been nailed to, one of the two thieves beside Jesus asked Him to remember him when He came into His kingdom. Jesus replied, "Today, you will be with Me in paradise." So even after living a life of crime, with only moments left to live, this criminal made things right with God and was saved.

Jesus told the thief three things: That it would be a blissful place (Paradise), in the immediate future (Today), and with Jesus (With Me). With a simple sentence and the right attitude, that man was saved. It could happen anywhere, at any time. For where there is breath, there is hope.

I have met people who thought God would never forgive them for the things they had done, but the sin problem was taken care of at the crucifixion of Jesus. Jesus took away the sin of the universe (kosmos - John 1:29). If you let Jesus wash your sins away, you get to start completely fresh with a clean slate. Nothing you have done in the past will be held against you. Though our sins are like scarlet, He will wash us as white as snow (Isaiah 1:18).

When you fall, get back up. This is an endurance race, and we may trip at times. We all need His forgiveness. Your pastor needs forgiveness just as much as you do. As long as you keep trying, you're going to make it. Your past can no longer stop you, and the Lord will help with your future. It's never too late to get started, and He can help you make what is left of your life count. So no matter the situation or what you may have done, there is still hope for you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you so much for forgiving me of the things that I have done wrong. Please fill my life with Your presence, and let me be a walking testimony of the power of God. Walk with me, speak to me and through me, and let me live my life for You. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: Today is Thankful Thursday at the Ministry Events group! This event gives us an opportunity encourage each other by posting thoughts, moments, and prayers of gratitude for Him, His creation and all that He does in our lives. All our welcome! To join, just click on the group name and then the join link on the page that will follow. As always, if you have a prayer need, we are here for you! We and the prayer team are ready to lift you up at our private prayer page: RHM Prayer Network.