I’m a Duke fan. As an alumnus, I am particularly proud of the sports legacies created there especially by the basketball program. Last week we lost a game in the NCAA tournament. We played very well throughout the game, particularly executing on a well planned defensive game plan. We held one of our opponent’s top scorers way below his game average. We also played great offense, enjoying a comfortable lead throughout the contest. Yes, we play well for 39 minutes and 45 seconds. In the remaining seconds, we lost. In the last .05% of the game we wasted our opportunity to be a national champion.

Enough about that. Yes, I’m disappointed but the reality for me is it was just a game. Just a few days of taking jabs from my Carolina and NCSU buddies. If there is one thing we all can learn from this game, regardless of your team preference: "It ain’t over til it’s over".

One of the most dramatic events described in scripture is found in Luke 23:43. Jesus hung on the cross together with two criminals. One to his left and one to his right. Both initially mocked Jesus but one later repented. One thief acknowledged Jesus and asked for forgiveness. He asked Jesus to be remembered in His kingdom. For me the response that followed from Jesus are eight of the most assuring words ever documented in scripture.

Jesus told the repentant criminal: "Today you will be with me in paradise". Here we have a man, who from what we know, lived a life of sin and crime. But by the grace extended to him in that moment, his fate was sealed in eternity. What a dramatic, drum roll, down to the wire, last minute shot kind of story.

As followers of Jesus, the story should be a familiar one. Each of us is that criminal. But on this Easter day, when we celebrate resurrection, let’s be reminded of how our story will end. Yes, He is Risen, Risen Indeed !!!!! And so shall we. Whether early in the game, or a last shot with only seconds remaining, we all have that opportunity. The story shared in the scripture highlights the possibility of repentance until the very last moment. Don’t squander it .