DISMAS AND GESTAS

Did you know the names of two thieves who were crucified with Jesus?
They are Dismas and Gestas.

These two thieves crucified on either side of Jesus symbolize different attitudes towards repentance and redemption according to the word of God.

1.Gestas, the bad thief:
He embodies the refusal to repent and the rejection of grace.
Gestas mocks Jesus and shows no signs of regret for his actions.
Mocking Jesus, Gestas said:
« Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us! »(Luke 23:39)
This mockery contrasts with the attitude of the « good thief », who recognizes his own guilt and the justice of Jesus, and who seeks his salvation.
His attitude symbolizes obstinacy in sin and rejection of the redemption offered by God.

2.Dismas, the good thief:
The name Dismas etymologically means the one who has a heart.
It represents faith, repentance and divine mercy.
Dismas recognizes his sins and the justice of his punishment.
Reacting to the villain’s mockery, Dismas said:
« Don’t you fear God, since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong. »( Luke 23:40-41)
And he turned to Jesus in faith and asked to be remembered in His kingdom.
« Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. »(Luke 23:42)
Jesus responds to him by promising him that he will be with Him in paradise.
« Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise. »(Luke 23:43)
This symbolizes the opening of redemption and forgiveness to all who sincerely repent, even in the hour of their death.

These two figures illustrate the fundamental choices that each person must make when faced with God’s offer of salvation: accept with humility and faith, or reject through disbelief and mockery.
What then is the figure that illustrates your personality or your choice in the face of God’s offer of salvation?

PRAYER:
Lord our God, grant that we may always be willing to acknowledge our sins and repent.
It is in the precious name of your son Jesus Christ that we pray, Amen.

Apostle Jean-Claude SINDAYIGAYA