Deep darkness fell across the land
To hide the shameful scene,
The sun concealed it’s shining face
Lest such a sight be seen.
For just outside Jerusalem,
Beyond the city gate,
The Son of God is crucified –
The object of cruel hate.
The thieves on either side join with
The mocking throng below
To taunt the Savior, scorn His claim,
Dare Him His power to show.
But in the midst of all the rage,
One thief rebuked the rest:
“We die for sins that we have done,
But He has not transgressed.”
He turned to Jesus, humbled now,
“O Lord, remember me
When You’re exalted to Your place
To rule eternally.”
And Jesus, merciful and kind,
Replied with matchless grace:
“Today you’ll be in paradise
With me in that pure place.”
Then Jesus lifted up His voice
Three mighty words He spoke –
For “It is finished!” All was done
To give us life and hope.
His work complete, He bowed His head,
He breathed His last and died.
My sins were paid in full that day
When Christ was crucified.
And though the day is darker than
All other days combined,
A brighter hope than all the rest
From this one day has shined.
Christina Joy Hommes
