November 24, 2019: Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

Reading: Luke 21: 5-19

The rulers sneered at Jesus and said,
“He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.”
Even the soldiers jeered at him.
As they approached to offer him wine they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.”
Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.”

Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Christ? 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.”

Reflection:

I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for the “good thief.” I admire his courage in rebuking the other thief who was thinking only of himself.; his sense of justice, admitting that his punishment was deserved, while Jesus “had done nothing wrong.” And I admire his prayer of trust, “ Jesus, remember me …”

Action:

Spend some time this week at the foot of the cross. What would you say to Jesus? How would you complete the sentence spoken by the good thief, “Jesus, remember me when …”