Today we find ourselves at the heart of the Passion narrative, with our Lord Jesus Christ hanging on the cross, hears the many mockers around Him reviling Him. He is accompanied by two “criminals” or revolutionaries. This is indeed a moment of great sorrow, but also a time of deep hope and mercy.

In verses 35-36 we see the rulers, the people and the soldiers mock the Lord, demanding that He save Himself, if He is the Messiah. He was scorned as they refused to recognize His divine mission He had come to fulfill. Scholars tell us that this rejection and humiliation are to remind us of how often, in our own lives, we can be tempted to mock or reject God’s presence, especially when His ways seem difficult or when suffering comes at us. But—there’s that important word—in the middle of this mockery and rejection something amazing happens: One of the criminals beside Him recognizes who He truly is. In verse 40, he rebukes the other criminal, acknowledging their guilt and Jesus’ innocence. In a moment of faith, the “confessing criminal” who sees the Light, says, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Scholars see this as a beautiful act of trust. Despite his own sins and the shame of his crucifixion, he turns to Jesus with hope. And Jesus responds with complete words of mercy and promise: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise. (v. 43)"

Today we ask ourselves: Are we like the crowds, quick to judge or mock? Are we like the penitent thief-criminal-revolutionary, humble, and trusting in Jesus? Our gospel reminds us to remember this message: No matter our past, no matter our sins, if we turn to Jesus with a repentant heart, He welcomes us home into His mercy and love.

Let’s get ready for Advent.