It is our Church’s custom to focus on Christ the King as we celebrate the last Sunday of our Church year.  Next week we begin a new Church year with the Season of Advent.

In our first reading from the prophet Daniel, our Lord is envisioned as the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven to receive dominion, glory and Kingship.  In the gospel from John, Jesus stands trial and is questioned about His Kingship by Pilate.

As John’s Passion unfolds, the theme of Christ’s Kingship emerges as the central point.  It is the focal point of Pilate’s questions, the cause of our Lord’s mock coronation by the soldiers, and the substance of the inscription placed on the cross— Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.

John uses irony to great effect.  Although Jesus is brought to trial before Pilate, it is really Pilate who is being judged.  Moreover, although Pilate hands Him over to be lifted up on the cross in ignominy he sets the stage for Jesus to be lifted up in glory.

In other words, His Kingdom does not depend on military might, economic strength, or political power.  It is a spiritual Kingdom that depends on faith, prayer and good works.  It is not a kingdom that seeks to increase its wealth, expand its borders or inflate its image.  It is a kingdom that promotes peace where there is violence, justice where there is exploitation,  and freedom where there is oppression.

Will we miss our chance as Pilate did and not take Christ’s kingship seriously?  Or will we acknowledge Him as family and join in His cause to protect human rights, relieve poverty, and care for the unwanted?

God Bless,

Msgr. Powell