The Crucifixion (Luke 23:26-43)

"Procession to Calvary" Pieter Breugel the Elder

In the surprisingly brief account of the crucifixion, Luke again describes the various reactions of the crowds and people at the event. The first reaction I read here is disappointment. The women following the procession, were mourning the death of Jesus. Just as none of the followers of Jesus understood what was happening that day, they were likely seeing the end of their hope. Today, after the resurrection, we have a better understanding of God’s saving plan. However, I think we too often react to events in our life as God’s failures. When things do not happen as we would want, we can fall into the trap of thinking that God’s plans have fallen apart, rather than recognizing that our plans are not God’s.

Next, we see a combination of negative reactions. The crowds watch everything as fascinating entertainment. They are indifferent to Jesus and wrapped up in the spectacle. The rulers and soldiers scoff at Jesus. They make sport of Him, saying that if He were truly the Messiah, He would save Himself from the death He was facing. Ironically, the fact that Jesus is the Messiah and was in total control is seen here in that He allows Himself to die and leaves His fate in God’s control so that his messianic mission would be accomplished. He will overcome death and sin, but on God’s terms. One of the thieves on the cross next to Jesus joins the rulers and soldiers in their blasphemy.

However, there is another reaction to be seen here. The other thief recognizes Jesus’ innocence. He sees Jesus for who He is and asks to be remembered when Jesus comes into his kingdom. Some people see the cross and are changed. When we see an innocent being punished for the kids of sins we commit, we recognize our need for rescue. Luke will go on to record a similar reaction from one of the soldiers at the cross. Earlier, he mentioned a man pushed into carrying the cross for Jesus. Simon appears to have also been changed by his encounter with Jesus, as Mark and possibly Paul refer to him being known by the churches.

As Luke has repeatedly don in these passion accounts, he shows us the various ways we can respond to Christ. What is our response to Him, both on the cross and in our daily walk with Him as our Lord?