TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 25 MARCH
March 25, 2026
Day Thirty-Two of Lent – “Woman, Behold Your Son…Behold Your Mother”
March 26, 2026
THE THIEF WHO BECAME A SAINT
“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
— Luke 23:42
Dismas, known as the Good Thief, was crucified beside Jesus. In his final moments, he turned to Christ with faith and humility. Tradition holds that even in a life marked by sin, his last act was one of trust in divine mercy.
One sincere turning to God can change eternity.
REPENTANCE OPENS THE DOOR TO GRACE
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us”
— 1 John 1:9
While hanging on the cross, Dismas acknowledged his guilt and accepted the justice of his punishment, saying, “We are receiving the due reward of our deeds” (Luke 23:41). His honest repentance became the doorway to salvation.
True repentance begins with truth and humility.
DEFENDING THE INNOCENT CHRIST
“He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.”
— 1 Peter 2:22
Dismas rebuked the other criminal who mocked Jesus and boldly proclaimed Christ’s innocence. Even in agony, he stood for truth and recognized the righteousness of Jesus.
Courage to defend truth pleases God, even in suffering.
FAITH IN THE MIDST OF SUFFERING
“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
— John 20:29
Though Jesus appeared powerless and crucified, Dismas believed in His kingship. His faith went beyond what his eyes saw, trusting in a kingdom not of this world.
Faith sees beyond present pain to eternal glory.
THE PROMISE OF PARADISE
“Today you will be with me in Paradise.”
— Luke 23:43
Jesus responded immediately to Dismas’ plea, granting him the promise of eternal life. This moment reveals the depth of God’s mercy and the immediacy of His saving grace.
God’s mercy is never delayed for the repentant heart.
NO ONE IS BEYOND REDEMPTION
“Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.”
— Romans 5:20
Dismas’ life shows that no past is too broken for God to heal. Even at the final hour, grace transformed a condemned man into a saint.
It is never too late to return to God.
A MODEL OF HOPE FOR SINNERS
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
— Romans 10:13
Saint Dismas stands as a beacon of hope for all who feel unworthy. His story assures that God listens even to the last cry of a contrite heart.
Hope in God’s mercy is never in vain.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, like Saint Dismas, I come before You with a humble and repentant heart. Teach me to trust in Your mercy, to acknowledge my sins, and to defend what is right. Even in my weakness, help me to turn to You with faith and hope. Remember me, Lord, and lead me into Your eternal kingdom. Amen
