Tim,
That very well could be. I do not deny that.... but in looking at "today" and what/when that is, it just doesn't seem to matter (to me) where the comma is (which when moved, if used, changes the emphasis and meaning of the statement).
So rather than argue over where the comma goes, it just seems easier (for me) to see that it does not matter.
However. IF Christ said: "I tell you the truth today, ...." Was he not then talking about a physical/earthly/24HR day?
And the only reason that bothers me is because Christ said that His words are SPIRIT.
SO.... IF Christ said: "..., today shalt thou be with me in paradise", I can see that he was not talking about a physical/earthly/24HR day. But was speaking a spiritual Truth as it relates to a particular "DAY".
The same word (sēmeron) is used in Hebrews where it mentions "While it is called TODAY":
Heb 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
Heb 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Heb 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
Heb 3:15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.
And I see what Christ is telling the thief on the cross as a spiritual truth.... that it is "while it is called today" that IF WE HEAR HIS VOICE that we are to NOT harden our hearts.
It is not UNTIL "Today if ye WILL HEAR my voice" and "harden not your hearts" that we are allowed to partake of the Tree of Life.
I see this as true for me, for you, for the thief on the cross.... for ALL.
It's just how I reconcile it in my own mind and I how I support it with the scriptures. Right or wrong.
Blessings,
Chrissie