Pastor Tom explained that these men were likely well-versed in scripture, possibly students aspiring to become rabbis, who found themselves in a tragic situation. Despite their circumstances, one thief recognized God’s presence and asked Jesus to remember him, securing a place with Him in paradise. The other thief, like many of us in difficult times, couldn’t feel God’s glory, missing the divine opportunity right in front of him.

He then spoke about Shekinah Glory—the idea that God’s glory dwells within us. Drawing parallels from Moses, who demanded to see God’s glory when tasked with leading the Israelites, and Elijah, who experienced God’s presence as a personal whisper during his own struggles, Pastor Tom emphasized that God is always near, offering His glory in both big and small ways.

The soldiers at the foot of Jesus’ cross were drawn to Him, yet they couldn’t recognize His divinity until after His death. It wasn’t until they witnessed His sacrifice that they acknowledged Him as the Son of God.

Pastor Tom concluded by sharing the story of Clayton Kershaw, a major league baseball player who only realized God’s presence in his life after joining a particular team. Despite all his success, it wasn’t until that moment that he recognized God’s constant presence, and now he leads Bible studies before games and serves on mission trips in Zambia.

The sermon reminded us that God’s glory is always present, whether we feel it or not—sometimes we just need to open our hearts to recognize it.