Readings for Nov. 23-24, Our Lord Jesus, Christ the King of the Universe
By Lyn Zahorik | For On Mission
People all over the world had a fascination with Queen Elizabeth II of England. From childhood, she had been prepared to become the queen. She seemed as comfortable in her regal robes as when she was trudging through the hillside, her corgis at her heels and a headscarf tied firmly under her chin.
She shook the hand of dignitaries and touched the hands of “commoners.” She spoke with authority, loyalty and compassion. Millions of people kept vigil through her death and funeral.
From his birth in Bethlehem, Jesus was chosen to be the King. The only royal robes he wore were the robes sarcastically thrown on him prior to his crucifixion. I imagine him spending his life trudging the hills of Judea, dusty sandals on his feet and his trusty dog at his side. (A dog is never mentioned in the Bible, but I can’t imagine someone who was born in a stable full of animals not having a dog of his own.)
Jesus challenged the High Priests and civil leaders and bent to heal the poor and broken-hearted. Jesus also spoke with authority, loyalty and compassion. At his crucifixion, crowds that had gathered quickly despised the experience, leaving just a few to keep vigil at his cross.
An earthy queen and a heavenly King. One followed by thousands of people for 96 years, the other having over two centuries filled with followers, who still follow and will do so until the day of his return. So many similarities — but the differences, well, they’re out of this world!
Jesus’ kingship is characterized by love, service, sacrifice and eternal authority, making him a unique and transformative leader for those who follow him. Jesus is a king of humility, sacrifice and of an unconditional love for all humanity. As a king, he reigns not through accession, power or domination, but through servitude and compassion, kneeling to wash feet and raise up sinners. His kingdom is eternal, with no beginning or end, taking up its place in the hearts and minds of believers.
Jesus’ teachings emphasize justice, mercy and righteousness, inviting everyone into a transformative relationship with him. As our King, Jesus exemplifies the perfect balance of authority and grace, guiding his followers with a gentle hand and an unwavering commitment to their well-being. His crucifixion and resurrection symbolize the ultimate victory over sin and death, offering eternal life to those who follow him.
The feast of Christ the King is important to us because it asks for our affirmation of Christ’s sovereignty in this world and in the eternal kingdom and, most importantly, within our own mind and soul. Acknowledging Jesus as our King involves a deep personal commitment that demands we transform our priorities, aligning them with the values of compassion, humility and faith that Jesus exemplified.
Even in times when the path and the outcome seem unclear and even uncertain, embracing Jesus as the King of our lives brings peace, purpose and the hope of the coming Kingdom of God in this world where justice, peace and love will prevail.
Zahorik is director for spiritual engagement at St. Mary Parish, Omro, and St. Mary Parish, Winneconne.
The readings for Sunday, Nov. 24, can be found at The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe | USCCB.
