“Jesus, remember me…”

Imagine it: condemned to die next to the very one who is dying for your sins; suffering beside the author of your own life; being tortured for a crime next to one who has never sinned. Suddenly, the other criminal, the third one, begins to ridicule Jesus, crying out in his own suffering, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us." And somewhere, deep within you, a sudden zeal bursts forth: "Have you no fear of God!"

This rebuke of the repentant thief hanging next to Jesus toward the other criminal, unrepentant and seeking self-gain even in death, is a sad moment, but also one that ends with hope. The good thief continues "Indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." A recognition of justice, even the justice that has led to this thief's own condemnation.

Then comes the moment of faith, of hope, of repentance: "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Sure, a cynic may say, "Oh, he too is looking for self-gain; he too is only looking out for himself." And yet, Jesus, who can see into his heart and knows the truth, responds with, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

As we approach this Sunday's solemn celebration of Palm Sunday and retell the story of Jesus' passion according to St. Luke, let us pray that we may have hearts like that of the good thief. Yes, we are sinners. Yes, justice may call for our own condemnation. And yet... if we but cry out with faith and hope in our hearts, asking Jesus for his mercy, asking to be with him... today's story, this week’s solemn celebrations and memorials, and our Savior's own words give us hope that, one day, we too will be with him in paradise.

Want to prepare your heart and mind for Sunday's Mass? Click here to find the readings.