His Father’s Agenda
The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, Luke 23:36
In today’s portion of scripture, there are many people who are all on their own agenda. This portion of scripture starts out with Simon of Cyrene, who was just passing by when all the commotion of Jesus’ crucifixion was going on. He was compelled to pick up Jesus’ cross and carry it for Jesus. That was not what Simon was there to do, but he did the work God had planned for him that day.
Then there were roman soldiers. They were there to crucify Jesus and the thieves with Him. It was obvious that they were looking out for themselves because they were gambling for their own advantage. They were there for their jobs, but they didn’t know they were doing God’s work.
The thieves got there because of what their focus was, to steal from others for their on benefit and the bystanders where there because they wanted to condemn Him. They looked at Him with shame, probably not even knowing what His crime was.
Lastly, there were the priest, who jeered and mocked Him. Trying to spur Him to action, but probably felt pretty safe that He would hang where He was. He hadn’t put up a fight up to this point, still they goaded Him to come down from the cross and save Himself. They had no idea they were instrumental in fulfilling the plan of God that day.
They were all brought together to complete Jesus’ mission and accomplish the Father’s purpose. God was working all those things and all those people together for something good and amazing for those who love Him and are called to His purpose. Jesus was not there for His benefit. His heart was to please His Father and to complete down to the last detail what He was sent to do. He had no concern for His own safety and well-being. He said “Father, forgive them. They don’t even know what they are doing. He surrendered His will and even saved one of the thieves that hung next to Him. When the priests incited Him that day, all He knew was that He was taking care of His Father’s business.
It’s the same with us today. For the most part people all over the world have one priority, that is pleasing themselves. Generally speaking, we all live each day seemingly on our own agenda, but have no doubt, God’s plan is happening. Even with the evils being done in the world today, God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him. There was no victory for the priest the day Jesus died. This glory was the Father’s in making a way to rescue the people that were lost to His enemy.
Today I want to encourage you to surrender your plans and schedule to your Father in heaven that loves you. Get on board with the plan and purpose He has for your life. Don’t leave it up to chance and circumstance that you will be at the right place at the right time. Submit and follow His divine direction so that you are actively in the place of your purpose. Don’t miss out on the supernatural joy of working together with your heavenly Father. His plan will be accomplished with or without you, but wouldn’t you like to share in the part He has designed you to complete? That is where your joy will be and that is where your success comes from.
Today’s scripture reading: Luke 23:32-43
32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death.
33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.
34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” and they divided His garments and cast lots.
35 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.”
36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine,
37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.”
38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”
40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation?
41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”
42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”
43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
The Daily Dose 