by Donald Senior, C.P.

Luke fills the crucifixion scene with details typical of his portrayal of Jesus. He is crucified with the two criminals surrounding him, fulfilling Jesus' own prediction at the supper table: "For I tell you that the scripture must be fulfilled in me, namely, 'He was counted among the wicked"' (23:37). Just as Jesus had repeatedly taught his disciples not to respond to violence with more violence and to be forgiving (6:27-36), so he forgives the very men who had condemned him and who drive the stakes into his body (23:34).

When one of the crucified criminals joins in the chorus of derision that accompanies Jesus to his death, the other confesses his sin and asks for mercy (23:39-43). It is Luke's prescription for authentic conversion as exemplified in the story of publican and the sinner (18:9-14) and so Jesus promises this man not only forgiveness but a place at his side that very day as his journey to God triumphantly reaches its home in paradise. The moment of Jesus' death is charged with drama. As a sign of the terrible power of death, the sun's light is eclipsed and darkness grips "the whole land" (23:44). The Temple veil covering the entrance to the Holy of Holies is torn in two--as if to say that even God's presence leaves the people. This is, indeed, the "hour of darkness".

From the midst of these terrible omens comes Jesus' piercing voice, his life breath poured out in a final prayer: "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." (23:46). The words are from Psalm 31 (verse 6) and express the core of Jesus' being--his unshakable trust in God, a trust that death itself could not destroy.

His death has an immediate impact. The Roman centurion who had overseen his execution is struck to the heart by the manner of Jesus' death, the first of an endless stream of believers touched by the cross of Christ. "This man was truly just", he acclaims. The wording of his confession fits perfectly with Luke's portrayal of Jesus in the passion. Jesus the martyr prophet was indeed a "just" man: totally committed to God's cause; willing to face death for the sake of the gospel.

Luke also uniquely describes the impact of Jesus' death on the bystanders. The people who had walked the way of the cross with Jesus (23:27) and now witness his death return "beating their breasts"--a sign of repentance (23:48). And standing at a distance are those "who knew" Jesus (Luke's subtle way of inching the frightened and scattered disciples back into the story?) and the faithful women "who had followed him from Galilee" (23:49). The gathering of the community which would burst into life after the resurrection already begins, at the very moment of Jesus' life-giving death.

Email questions or comments about this page to Fr. Victor Hoagland, C.P. Copyright 1997, Passionist Publications, Union City, NJ USA. Passionist Publications reserves all rights to text, illustrations, and HTML.