Throughout the whole of Luke’s Gospel, we witness Jesus seeking to rescue all those who are lost. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Luke masterfully weaves stories illustrating this truth including parables of the lost coin, the lost sheep, the two lost sons (a.k.a. the prodigal son), as well Jesus’ encounters the woman of ill-repute who anoints Him, tax-collectors and Samaritans. As we read Luke’s Gospel this year, we have been reminded of Jesus’ relentless mission to retrieve the lost ones and restore them to safety within God’s Kingdom.

In today’s Gospel, after Jesus has been lifted up on the Cross as King, a further “lost one” comes to into view (Luke 23:35-43). What kind of king do we have who, while nailed to the Cross himself, still pursues one who is lost? Recognizing Jesus’ innocence, a criminal asks of his newfound king: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (v. 42). Jesus replies: “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” (v. .43).

The kingship of Jesus remains very much alive in the Church. In contrast to tyrannical authority of worldly despots, Christ Jesus exercises a sovereignty which is universal in its loving search for the lost one. On the Cross, Jesus promises: “Today, you will be with me in paradise”. Jesus’ timeless words are proclaimed by intentional disciples who dare to keep they sights set upon Christ the King who reign is for us and for our salvation.