This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus
Christ, King of the Universe. This
solemnity is fairly new in our Church—it was promulgated in 1925 by Pope Pius
XI and found its permanent place in the calendar in 1969 by Pope Paul VI.
The
date of this feast is significant—Christ the King always takes the place of the
last Sunday of Ordinary Time. This
fits in with the rhythm of the liturgical year as the readings during this time
feature the reality of death and eternal life. We end the year by being reminded that we serve the King of
kings.
The
prophecies of the coming Messiah led many in Jesus’ time to expect an earthly
king. They looked for a noble and
rich man who would lead the Jews to freedom from oppressors and establish a
dynasty. They were in for quite a
surprise!
Jesus
was born into a poor family—his cradle was a manger. His rule was marked by service, not domination, and his
battles were against sin, evil and death.
The battlefield was not a piece of earth but the human heart. The only throne he mounted was the
cross—the place on which he gave his life for his Father’s kingdom. His kingship turned all expectations
upside down.
Jesus
desires to be our King and we are called to be his followers. He summons us to be faithful citizens
of his kingdom by being loving, merciful, compassionate, generous and bold
disciples.
How
are you doing as citizens of this kingdom? Is Jesus the King of kings in your life?
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