Three crosses

They crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. – Luke 23:33

In many paintings of the crucifixion of Jesus, the center cross on which He hung is taller or higher on a hill than the other two. We can appreciate an artist’s desire to give Christ a place of preeminence, but we have no reason to believe that Jesus was given an elevated or exalted position – higher than that of the two thieves. Those who crucified Jesus considered Him to be a common criminal, so the crosses were most likely on the same level.

As I think about this, I realize that Jesus was not out of reach – way above the poor sinners on the other crosses. I also think it is likely that the three crosses were very close together. The two thieves could carry on a conversation with each other above the shouting and tumult of the mob around them. In fact, if the dying thief’s hand had not been nailed to the cross, he might very well have been able to reach over and put his hand on Jesus’ hand. This I believe is significant. Jesus is within reach of all who will look to Him and touch Him with the hand of faith!

Yes, anyone can come to Him and receive forgiveness and new life. Have you reached out in faith to the One who died on a cross for you? – Martin R. De Haan, M.D.

They nailed His hands, they pierced His brow

As they cried with a fiendish glee,

"If Thou be the Son of God, come down!"

But He stayed on the cross for me! – Crooks

READ: Luke 23:32-38

Nothing speaks more clearly of God’s love than the cross.

The Bible in one year:

• 1 Samuel 13-14

• Luke 10:1-24