In this post, we continue our three part Easter Series by marrying a few samples of our new Exploration Communication spring desert photography with Holy Scriptures that are particularly relevant to Holy Week.

The thought for this approach flows from Jesus telling the woman at the well, “Whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Christians everywhere believe that just as water can bring beautiful color and life even in a desert, Christ can be the ‘living water’ for which our soul’s thirst.

Today’s post comes on what is traditionally known as Good Friday – the historic anniversary of when Jesus was crucified and a day when Christians worldwide recognize that Christ’s suffering was offered for our salvation. Salvation that is available to all, as is demonstrated in his words to the good thief on the cross.

Luke: 23:33-43

When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. (Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.”) They divided his garments by casting lots.

The people stood by and watched; the rulers, meanwhile, sneered at him and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Messiah of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.”

Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.” Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us.”

The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”