Luke 23:33-43 (NRSV)
Read Luke 23:33-43 on biblegateway.com
Verse 33When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Verse 34Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. Verse 35And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" Verse 36The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, Verse 37and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" Verse 38There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." Verse 39One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" Verse 40But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? Verse 41And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Verse 42Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Verse 43He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Devotion
Death is lonely, but Jesus’ death was hardly solitary. Many fell into procession with him, including two others, who like him were criminals (Luke 23:32). His execution, like theirs, was quite public. It was intentionally staged out in the open, as a warning and threat from an empire that ruled by fear and force.
How many people beloved by God have died as Jesus did on account of threats, arrest, and execution, some even by the Church as it sought power and wealth instead of loving service? We cannot erase our history as God’s people, but we can help write new stories of hope as we walk with Jesus. He calls us to change death into life for neighbors falsely accused, children suffering violence, strangers who face death sentences because of malnutrition, illness, or poverty. The Risen Christ calls us to hear their cries and as he did, accompany them.
Prayer
Lord, Jesus Christ, may we hear your words of welcome, “Today you will be with me in Paradise,” as we join hands with neighbors. Renew your work in the life of your people, the Church. Give us courage, strength, and the persistence of your love. Amen.
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