THE THIEF ON THE CROSS

GALATIANS 2:20

 

Crucified with Christ was he!

He saw what the other thief would not see.

He saw Jesus, righteous indeed

Who did no wrong, but was crucified for thee.

 

He saw his sin and just reward

So humbled on a wooden stake.

He saw the One whom he adored.

The son of God who took his place.

 

Remember Me when into your Kingdom You come

He recognized Him as king Who paid the sum

To ransom his captive soul so that he might live

His own precious blood was what he did give.

 

The other thief inside did rage

Although guilty of a sinner’s wage

Was wrathful with indignity

demanding salvation so that he could remain a thief.

 

He did not see the King of Kings

With Crown of thorns and bloody face

He only saw what some men see.

Not the grace of God that sets them free.

 

In Paradise there arose a shout

Of Glory shining roundabout.

With adoring eyes and holy embrace.

The humble thief rejoiced as the benefactor of God's grace.

 

When all was lost and only left

Was a steady gaze and his last breath

He extolled the King of Kings

He saw the son of God whom Salvation brings

 

Adore him now and look not back

For he supplies what men truly lack

Life everlasting, peace, joy, and truth.

Union with him, a glorifying rebirth.

 

Crucified with Christ was he

 A humbled thief who gives the ultimate testimony.

 

I recognized Him as the king,

whose gaze was not condemning

For release was not sought,

But only to be with him

 

In His time of final agony

He turned His eyes toward me

What love, so selfless and divine

His word so gracious, tender, and kind.

 

Don't let His word go unheard.

For the Kingdom it will bring.

Face to face with Holy Grace

To take your place with the King of Kings.

 

Deb Melito June 2022