St. Stephen Church at 6044 SW 19th Street , Miramar, FL 33023 US - Weekly Reflection from the Archbishop's Office
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Weekly Reflection from the Archbishop's Office |
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Every year on the final Sunday in Ordinary Time the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Christ the King. The feast of Christ the King was added to the calendar of feasts by Pope Pius XI on December 11, 1925. The wonderful characteristic of this passage from John is its dialogue between two rulers, the governor of a nation and Jesus, whose dominion is all of creation. Pontius Pilate ruled as Roman procurator of Judea for ten years (26-36 ac) His treatment of Jews and Samaritans was cruel and insensitive. John uses this dialogue to show the contrast between the two kingdoms: the Kingdom of Jesus is very different from the Roman in that his does not use intimidation or violence. Jesus rules in justice and mercy which are offered especially to the poor and the suffering.
Today’s reading offers three significant messages:
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Jesus does not use his power and authority for personal gain. Instead he places it at the service of the poor, the infirm and the sinner, so that they may be healed and may share in his new life.
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Jesus’ authority does not come from any human power, but from God.
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The Reign of God is not limited to Jews.
For your personal reflection:
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As a follower of Christ the King, how do I promote justice, peace and compassion in my family, school, workplace or parish?
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Do I sometimes act as if I were following a “human king and kingdom”?
