A Reflection for Christ the King

A Reflection for Christ the King

The last Sunday before Advent is celebrated as Christ the King Sunday celebrates. On this day Christ’s sovereignty and authority is celebrated.
Jesus is Lord and King. He is the promised Messiah, anointed one, for whom we wait in Advent.

This festival was introduced in 1925 by Pope Pius XI to encourage Christians to remember the authority of Christ when the world was becoming increasingly influenced by secular rule.

This is particularly pertinent today when individualism is rife and to allow oneself to be guided by any authority is seen as weakness and a submission to oppression. Authority is scorned and ridiculed. This is a misunderstanding of the kingship of Christ and of the Christian message which is concerned with humility and service to all humanity [Mark 10. 42 – 45]. Jesus’ kingdom is not in the same category as earthly dominion [John 18. 33 – 37]. He is a king who is merciful and just, who comes to suffer and die for love of all humanity.

Jesus Christ our Lord and King,
bring in your kingdom of justice,
righteousness, hope, love,
peace, mercy and grace for all.
Rule in our hearts.
May your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.