Two thieves were crucified, one on His left, one right.
Both robbers heaped insults with sinister delight.
The townsfolks hurled insults at Jesus, Innocent.
The crowd on a mission, enraged and militant.

“Father, please forgive them, they don’t know what they do.”
This stunning prayer for them? This hostile retinue?!
“Save us and save yourself! You claim to be the Christ!”
You claim to be a king! For them you’d sacrifice?!?

But the second thief watched, as Jesus was reviled,
Forgave the wicked crowd, refused to speak with vile.
Jesus cared for His mom, and for a friend named John,
This thief’s heart was melting; his heart was being drawn.

But the first thief, unchanged, spewed more repugnant jeers.
The second thief replied, “No! It’s God we should fear!
We are punished justly, getting what we deserve,
But what has Jesus done?” Repentance struck a nerve!

“When You’re in Your kingdom, me, would you remember?”
Meek repentance spoken, childlike faith he tendered.
“By the end of the day, in paradise you’ll live!!”
Life from death, the thief gained; Christ’s death, His life to give.

(Luke 23:32-43)