Simplicity...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 6:14-30 / NT - Luke 23:26-49

"Then he said, “Jesus, 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

In 1969 I worked in a computer office with a system that filled the room. It was complex and huge. Today I carry a small, very thin smart phone that has more memory and storage than that massive system. Technology has come a long way to simplify things for the end user. Religion, on the other hand, has complicated matters of the soul continually throughout the centuries. Getting to heaven has become a real complex trip.

In the last hour of our Lord's earthly life he encountered a repentant criminal. In this exchange we discover the truth about forgiveness and eternity. The simplicity of "touching" Christ with a heart of faith opened the world of heaven without complexity. As a result of trusting Jesus, this man was transported to glory that day, and not a moment later. Getting to heaven was a real simple trip.

Walking with God in this life and into the next life has always been quite simple. Adding to the picture just makes things more confusing and less achievable. Jesus said, the life of faith is easy to live and small enough to carry anywhere; "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:30) and at the end of the journey... getting to heaven will be a real quick trip.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 7  / NT - Luke 23:50-24:12