November 20, 2016

Feast of Christ the King -

A Reflection by Fr. Leo

 

We who live in a world where there are still Kings and Queens might get the wrong idea of Christ’s kingship as we celebrate today the Feast of Christ the King.  The true definition comes from Luke’s gospel, where Jesus’ love and greatness are expressed as he hangs on a cross between two thieves. 

 

In this wonderful passage Jesus is rebuked by the crowd (He saved others. Let him save himself), and by the one thief who says, “Save yourself and us, if you are the son of God.” The second thief expresses his faith and respect, recognizing his sin in contrast to Jesus’ innocence.  He asks to be allowed into Christ’s kingdom and it is granted.  Love shared at the moment of death that is truly eternal.

 

This same love is what Jesus invites us to as we celebrate the feast of Christ as King.  St. Paul articulates this for us in our second reading from chapter one of Colossians. He encourages us to be grateful because the Father has made us fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light.  Just as the second thief’s faith brought him into God’s kingdom, so too, our faith brings us into the fullness of the presences of God sharing in the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 

 

Our faith, based in the deep humility exhibited by the second thief, helps us know our own weakness so God can become our strength.  Oh, such liberty, freedom and joy!  Let us pray that all creation may this day be brought into the fullness of God’s Kingdom.  “Father…thy will be done…your kingdom come!”