The Feast of Christ the King
Scripture:
Daniel 7:13-14
Revelation 1:5-8
John 18:33b-37
Reflection:
In 1925 secularism had permeated significant parts of the world. Pope Pius XI created the Feast of Christ the King as an antidote to secularism. Secularism, at that time was considered to be a way of life thinking or living as if God does not exist. The feast is intended to cause us to evaluate what role does Christ have in our lives. Is Christ the center of our lives in all that we say and do? Christ the King should be central over individuals, families, society, governments and nations. (https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2021-11-21)
This is the last Sunday of the Church year which means we focus on our eternal life to come. It also means that next Sunday is already the First Sunday of Advent. This day is referred to in the Church as the Solemnity of Jesus Christ King of the Universe!
When we say Jesus is king what does that mean for you and me? Does that mean we have a personal relationship with Jesus? Do we turn to him for guidance and direction in our lives? How much time daily to we spend in developing a daily prayer life and a heart-to-heart conversation with Jesus. Is Jesus the focus and center of our life
If Jesus is King where is his kingdom? In the gospel of Luke, we find the answer. “The Kingdom of God is within you”. (Luke 17:21) A common popular interpretation is that God is within you (or among you). The kingdom is essentially inward as you develop your relationship with Jesus allowing him to change your life, enabling you to make ethical decisions. The kingdom is within you in’ the person of Jesus. To what degree have you developed your relationship with Jesus? To what extent have you allowed Jesus to guide and direct you and your life? This is what it means for Jesus and his Kingdom to be within you. Lord may your kingdom come and thy will be done with in me. (Got Questions: https://www.gotquestions.org/kingdom-of-God-within-you.html)
Carl Middleton is a theologian/ethicist and a member of the Passionist Family.