One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding (Jesus) saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we arc getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
All Knell
Leader: Jesus, two others are nailed on either side of you. One challenges you to release him now; the other asks to be freed with you in your kingdom. One sees only weakness; the other sees power and is able to trust in a promise of everlasting life with you as his time in this world comes to an end.
People: O Jesus, look upon us now. See us in our need and hear us as we cry out to you. Help us to trust you in difficult circumstances. Give us eyes to see your power in hopeless times, to see your kingdom in all we encounter. We love you, Jesus; remember us.
