Station 11: Jesus Promises his Kingdom to the Good Thief

Painting by Gregory Huret

As Jesus was on the cross the men being crucified on either side called out to him. The first man called out to Jesus asking him to save both himself and them from their execution. The second man then corrected the first. Telling him that they were being punished according to their crimes, but Jesus had done nothing wrong. 

This same man then asked Jesus to remember him when he enters his kingdom. Jesus promises that man that he will see paradise that very day. 

As you read today’s Scripture consider the man who admitted his own faults even at the moment of his execution. You can be repentant just as he was. 

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."

(Luke 23: 39-43)

The second man sought Jesus even in the final moments of his life. This week, as we approach Easter, we invite you to seek out Jesus as well. He promises us that if we seek him we will find him. Today’s reading shows us that this promise is true. 

Close with the following prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ help us to be people who are constantly seeking you. Draw us near to you this Holy Week. Teach us to love our neighbors well. Amen.