Gospel
35 The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” 36 Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine 37 they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” 38 Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.” 39 Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us.” 40 The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? 41 And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
Historical Background
Crucifixion was a brutal Roman execution method reserved for slaves, rebels, and criminals. Victims were stripped, nailed or tied to wooden crosses, and left to die slowly from exhaustion, blood loss, or suffocation.
Pilate ordered the mocking title “King of the Jews” to be placed above Jesus, highlighting the irony of His kingship. Religious leaders, soldiers, and bystanders ridiculed Jesus, demanding He save Himself. Yet He chose silence, embodying Isaiah’s “suffering servant” who did not retaliate.
Jesus was crucified between two thieves, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy that the Messiah would be “numbered with the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:12).
Theological Context
Unlike worldly kings who wield power through force, Jesus reigns through humility, suffering, and forgiveness. His throne is the cross.
The repentant thief acknowledges Jesus’ innocence and kingship, asking to be remembered. His simple act of faith secures salvation: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.” This passage demonstrates that salvation is not earned by works but received through faith and repentance. Jesus assures the thief of eternal life, showing that death is not the end but the gateway to communion with God.
Learning Lessons
Leadership is not about dominance but about service, sacrifice, and love. God’s mercy is always available. No one is beyond redemption
Jesus teaches that silence and trust in God can be more powerful than retaliation. Even in agony, Jesus extends mercy—reminding us to forgive others even when it hurts.
Reflection for the Day
When life feels unjust and voices mock or misunderstand us, we can look to Christ on the cross. His silence was not weakness but strength. His mercy was not naïveté but divine love. Today, let us ask: Do I forgive as freely as Jesus forgives me? Do I recognize His kingship in my life, not in worldly power but in humble love?
Upon the cross, the King was crowned,
No golden throne, no jewels around.
Mocked by rulers, pierced by pain,
Yet love eternal chose to reign.
Beside Him hung a thief in plea,
“Lord, remember, think of me.”
And mercy spoke, so calm, so near,
“Paradise waits, today you’re here.”
O silent King, O wounded Lamb,
Your reign is peace, not sword nor hand.
Teach us to trust, forgive, and pray,
To walk with You in love each day.
Lord Jesus,
You are the King of Mercy. On the cross You showed the world that true power is love. You forgave the thief, You forgave Your enemies, You forgave me.
Grant me the grace to forgive those who hurt me, to remain silent when silence is wiser than words, and to trust that You will remember me in Your Kingdom. Reign in my heart today, Lord, and lead me to Paradise. Amen
Pericope:
Gospel Acclamation
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is to come!
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
