Anchor Devotional

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With Jesus in Paradise

“Then he said, ‘Remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ Jesus answered him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.’” Luke 23:42-43

Paradise might mean something different to each of us. For a middle schooler, it’s 3:10 p.m. on a Friday when the weekend begins. For others, it might be a warm, sunny beach.

In the Bible, paradise refers to the dwelling place of God. The Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament) uses the word paradise to describe the Garden of Eden. In the book of Revelation, paradise refers to the location of the Tree of Life, a reminder that what was lost in the Fall is restored through Jesus. That’s why He tells the thief on the cross, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” The thief would be restored right then!

How amazing that even in His suffering, Jesus knew His pain would bring triumph over sin and death. No longer would God’s people be barred from paradise or from the Tree of Life.

The thief’s life of faith lasted only a few moments, but it was genuine. For he knew Jesus would soon reign over a kingdom far greater than any made by men. You, dear friend, are living in that kingdom now, even as you await His second coming when paradise will be reality.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS
Luke 23:32-43

INSIGHT
Lord, thank You for the free access to the kingdom that is ours by grace through faith in Jesus. Amen

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Job 31-32
Psalm 57
Luke 20

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