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Solemnity of Christ the King, Cycle C
Mercy Ridge Hermitage
November 24, 2019
A King and Yet Not a King
(Rev. Msgr.) Nicholas P. Amato
A King?
“Above him there was an inscription that read, ‘This is the King of the Jews.’”
Our Church has picked up on this title “King” and created this day in honor of Christ, as King. For us, in a leading democratic country that elects its presidents, this may seem like an odd way to honor Christ.
But, if we look closely at today’s Gospel, we get some wonderful insights into what it means for Jesus Christ, to be a king. This means something very different than it has meant for Henry VIII of England or Salman of Saudi Arabia.
And Yet Not a King!
First, we see that Jesus does not rule from a throne, but hangs on a cross. This conveys that Jesus does not selfishly take life from us like some of the notorious rulers of history have done.
Instead, he gives his life for us on the cross. And he gives God’s life to us.
Then, we see that Jesus knows the value of silence. He remains silent in the face of ridicule and mockery.
He doesn’t strike back verbally. His silence shows his goodness and peace, and creates the space for others to calm down.
Then, connected with that, Jesus does not grow hardened, much less, vengeful. Instead, he remains compassionate and forgiving.
To the one repentant thief who is crucified with him, he responds: “Today you will be with me in paradise.” For those who actually are crucifying him, he prays: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
And finally, in all of this, we see that Jesus is not excluding. He does not shun or push away or refuse to have anything to do with those who are imperfect or unacceptable.
Instead, Jesus remains welcoming and inclusive. This is his consistent way of drawing others to God and we see this all throughout the Gospels.
Conclusion
So,this title “King” helps us to see Jesus as a leader or ruler in an entirely different way.
He leads by example, by spiritual power, not by coercive power. The conclusions for us as individuals and for us as an institutional Church are obvious.
He has empowered us to be like him, to foster his kingdom, to be sons and daughters of God.
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