Judge Not

As I continue along my personal sprititual development journey, I focus on "The

Today as I continue along my lenten spirtual journey, I focus attention on "The Second Word from the Cross - 'Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.'"

Reading in chapter 2 of Neuhaus's "Death on a Friday Afternoon" I am reminded about the "two criminals hoisted on their crosses, one to the left of Jesus, the other to the right."

Two of the gospel writers referred to the two as "criminals". "A pious legend has it the the 'good thief' was on the right (the 'found sheep')."

The thief on the left of Jesus seemed to mock Jesus asking, "Are you not the Christ? and stating, Save yourself and us!"

"The other thief rebuked the first, we are told. "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?" And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong. Jesus, he said, 'remember me when you come into your kingdom.'" "And Jesus said to him, 'Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise."

As I reflect on the scenario of the two thieves and the words of Jesus it seems to me it is clear and truth that we should not judge others. Oh, but what a challenge. I often fail at this truth (command) though I know better and I have had years to improve.

Lord, I am a sinner. I have judged others. I am sorry and intend to do better. I can't do better by myself. I ask You, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and Mother Mary to help me improve and to allow any judgement due be Yours to make.

Amen!