Scripture Reading
“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
—Luke 23:42–43 (NIV)
Reflection
There are wounds that can’t be undone. Words we can’t take back. Relationships that fracture beyond repair. If you’re in recovery, you’ve probably come face-to-face with this: the helpless ache of not being able to fix what’s broken.
The thief on the cross knew that feeling. He had no time to make amends, to live differently, to rebuild a new life. All he could do was ask—Jesus, remember me. And Jesus did more than remember. He promised redemption. Not someday—today.
Grace is not measured by how much you can fix. It is measured by who you trust. In that moment, the thief brought nothing but need—and Jesus gave him everything. That’s the gospel.
If you’re standing in the ruins of something you can’t repair, hear this: Jesus is still enough. He is still near. His kingdom isn’t earned by restoration projects. It’s entered through surrender. And it starts the moment you turn toward Him, even if it’s with nothing left in your hands.
Prayer
Jesus,
I wish I could undo what I’ve done.
I wish I could fix what’s broken. But I can’t.
So instead, I bring You this simple request: remember me.
Not because I’ve proven myself. Not because I’ve earned it.
But because You are full of mercy.
Thank You for offering paradise to those who come empty-handed.
Thank You for being enough when I am not.
Amen.
Practice
Sit quietly with this question:
What have I been trying to fix that may never be fully restored?
Imagine placing that situation into Jesus’ hands—like the thief did. Speak aloud (or write): Jesus, I trust You with this.
Read Luke 23:42–43 slowly. Let it speak into your helplessness. You are not forgotten. Let that promise be enough for today
