Introduction and Observation:
It should be noted that Luke’s account of the crucifixion is different from the other three Gospels in the case of the two criminals crucified with Jesus. Only in Luke is there a repentant thief. In the three other gospels, it is simply mentioned that there were two criminals crucified with Jesus.
Also, note the characters mentioned by Luke BEFORE and AFTER the crucifixion. Before the crucifixion, there were Simon of Cyrene (who helped Jesus carry the cross), a large crowd, and the women. After the crucifixion, there were the Roman centurion (who declares Jesus innocent), the large crowd (who were beating their breasts in mourning), and the women who followed him. (Did you notice the pattern of three’s, which, in the bible usually means “completeness”?)
DURING the crucifixion, Jesus is surrounded also by three groups: the rulers, the soldiers, and one of the co-crucified, all mocking Jesus.
Both the groups BEFORE and AFTER were favourable towards Jesus. Imagine therefore the flow of the story. There are those for and against Him, but observe what Jesus chose to do to those against Him. He keeps silent throughout, and when He chose to speak, it was to invite a criminal to be with Him.
Interpretation
The crucifixion scene is regarded as a “masterpiece of Lucan theology.”[1] Up to last moment before His death, Luke paints Jesus as the person of love and forgiveness. This is shown in the following:
- Only in the gospel of Luke is there a repentant thief. Crucifixion is the Roman’s worst punishment and is reserved for the vilest of criminals, so both thieves were no ordinary robbers. Yet, Jesus had only one requirement: repentance. Even a last minute one was good enough.
- It was pointed out that the groups BEFORE and AFTER the crucifixion were all favourable towards Jesus. But did you notice the presence of non-Jews (or Gentiles) among these groups? These were Simon of Cyrene and the Roman centurion. The rest were Jews. You recall that for the Jews, all non-Jews were excluded from God’s Reign. They were not part of the chosen people. Luke’s theme of universal salvation is once again highlighted: God’s message of love, forgiveness, and invitation to be part of the Reign of God is open to everyone.
Generalization
The reason that the cross is the mark of a Christian is not to glorify suffering, but to symbolize that love and forgiveness is what being a Christian is all about. This love and forgiveness is all-inclusive, no one is excluded; not even the person that hurt you the most.
Application
We cannot avoid but be occasionally critical of others: the corrupt people in government, the “inconsistent” or “non-active” Renewal member, our parents, children and friends, or those who simply disagree with our views. Jesus, too, was critical when He saw wrong. Only Jesus had the right to criticize and correct others. Yet at end of his life, all the wrongs in the world did not overcome his love and compassion.
Discussion Questions:
- What makes forgiveness difficult for you?
- Share how you were able to overcome the difficulty of forgiving someone.
[1] Raymond E. Brown, SS, An Introduction to the New Testament, New York: Doubleday, 1997, 260.
