The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Readings : 2 Samuel 5:1-3; Colossians 1:12-20 and Luke 23:35-43
In Catholic Tradition, Jesus has been bestowed with many titles. Today, we celebrate His title, “Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe,” of both the seen and unseen realms.
In the first reading taken from Samuel, we are reminded of David’s kingship, his appointment to the throne by King Saul. The hereditary rite to kingship did not come until after David; nonetheless, he was chosen and anointed by God for the task. Reflecting on David’s simple beginnings as a shepherd boy tending his flock, but chosen to be Israel’s king, we can’t help but see the foreshadowing of the coming of Christ, born of simple means, in a manger and chosen and anointed to be the King of the Universe, the Shepherd of all. This reading prepares His way.
In the second reading from Colossians, Paul sums up the sovereignty of the Son of God and the vastness of His dominion over all things. Then, Paul reminds us of our inclusion in this, God’s plan. Paul writes, “and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.”
Today’s gospel of Luke has the rulers sneering at Jesus and the soldiers mocking Him during the crucifixion. By earthly standards wouldn’t a man, claiming to be king, save himself? Most would, but Jesus wasn’t just a man with just a kingdom. His mission was far beyond saving Himself. In those final moments of his life while being sneered at, spat on, and mocked, Jesus, turned to the criminals hanging next to Him. There He found one seeking to be saved, but the other showed reverence and faith, only asking to be remembered when Jesus came into His kingdom. Jesus' response was His final act on earth – mercy, saying to the repentant thief, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
During this season of Thanksgiving let us not forget to be thankful for those things in the seen realm that we sometimes can take for granted: family, friends, health, and work. But more importantly, let us not forget to be thankful for those things in the unseen realm: first and foremost, our relationship with Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.
Peggy Roach, Associate
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