Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

When Buckingham Palace is entertaining, the setting of the table takes several days to accomplish. Detail and attention are given to the location of each place setting so that there is perfect alignment. The table is long, elaborately decorated, creating a scene fit for a king.

Comparing Jesus to warrior kings such as Saul and David, or to current monarchs, in no way describes who Jesus is as our King. Our reading from Paul and the gospel describe a vision of Christ’s kingship to rule and lead all of humanity.

In the second reading, God is described as the Creator and Jesus as God’s image, agent of creation. Jesus is the one who unifies; he is our dwelling place and our source of peace. He is the one who shed his blood on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins.

The gospel reminds us that Jesus did not die in a church between two candles, but rather outside Jerusalem, on a hill called Golgotha, the place of the Skull. Jesus died where criminals were executed, with the stench of hatred and death permeating the air. Where is the kingship in this gospel? Jesus’ kingship is present not only in this gospel but in all the gospels heard, in the countless individuals he healed, such as the leper, the centurion, Jairus’ daughter, the woman at the well, and today in the good thief, all sinners seeking mercy and forgiveness. Sneered at by the soldiers and religious leaders, Jesus finishes his mission, the salvation of all those who place their faith and trust in him, like the good thief.

Today, we not only look to the Cross, but we also come forward as sinners, to be nourished by the Eucharist, our source of healing and forgiveness in Jesus, King of the Universe.

Let us Pray:

Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. Amen.