Show Don't Tell: Luke 23:33-43

Instead of saying "Jesus was crucified between two criminals," hear the prayer for his executioners. When they come to the place called the Skull, they crucify him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus says: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." While they drive nails, he prays forgiveness. They divide up his clothes by casting lots. The people stand watching, and the rulers sneer: "He saved others; let him save himself if he is God's Messiah, the Chosen One." The soldiers also mock him, offering sour wine: "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself." A written notice above him: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. One of the criminals hurls insults: "Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebukes him: "Don't you fear God? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he says: "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise." A criminal becomes the first to enter the kingdom—by faith alone, in his final hour.