MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 23 NOVEMBER
November 23, 2025
FEAST OF SAINT ANDREW DUNG-LAC AND COMPANIONS – 24 NOVEMBER
November 24, 2025
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
23 NOVEMBER, 2025
Luke 23:35–43
The people stood watching, and the leaders scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!”
The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.”
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and 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 are 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.”
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
At the cross, we witness humanity at its most divided—mockery from leaders, indifference from soldiers, desperation from one criminal, and humble surrender from the other. Yet amidst this darkness, Jesus reveals the depth of His kingship: not a king who saves Himself but a King who saves others. The repentant criminal’s simple plea, “Jesus, remember me,” becomes one of Scripture’s most powerful displays of grace. It reminds us that no one is beyond God’s mercy and that a sincere heart turned toward Christ is always welcomed. Even in agony, Jesus offers assurance, hope, and an immediate promise of eternal life.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, King of mercy, turn our hearts toward You as You turned the heart of the repentant thief. Help us to seek Your presence with humility and trust, especially in our moments of weakness. Remember us in Your Kingdom, and grant us the grace to live with faith, compassion, and gratitude for Your saving love. Amen
