by Mark Weinrich

In the world’s ways, the thief’s
words were a surprise. 
Yet in the realm of grace
the Father would not leave
His Son undefended, 
even if the message came 
from the most unlikely source.
From a condemned man
with nothing religious or
otherwise, to commend himself.
Yet he had simply watched 
the innocence and forgiveness 
of Jesus lived out in those 
final hours. And he could not
keep silent when Jesus was mocked,
“Don’t you fear God,” he said
“since you are under the same since
sentence? We are punished justly,
for we are getting what our deeds
deserve. But this man has done 
nothing wrong.”

Is it any wonder, that this man, 
who felt so unworthy, saw everything 
clearly at the most vital time, 
“Jesus, remember me when you 
come into your kingdom.”

And the only one who openly defended
Jesus, witnessed Jesus’ final smile and heard 
the words that everyone should long for,
“Truly I tell you, today you will
be with me in paradise.”

Mark Weinrich lives a creative life as a writer, photographer, musician, and artist–all wrapped together in an outdoorsman. He is a retired pastor and nine-year cancer survivor. His writing and photography have appeared in over 138 news stand, inspirational, and literary publications. He has sold eight children’s books and currently has two fantasy novels on Kindle.