Luke 23:35-43: The Crucifixion

We prayerfully read again yesterday's Gospel passage.

"And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!” The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.”

One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”"

Novena Prayer

We should have no doubt that the men crucified with Jesus were villains; one of them admits as much. By the crude standards of the day, they got what they deserved. And yet one of them turns to Jesus (and repentance, remember, means literally a turning towards God) and asks to be remembered by Jesus when he comes into his kingdom. He is at once given a promise that he will join him in paradise. God's mercy is like this, this Gospel says. What matters is not what we have done, or how often, but that we ask to be forgiven.

Father, forgive me my sins; call me into your kingdom.

I ask you especially for [here name your intention]

Our Father - Hail Mary - Glory Be

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