WORD Reflection November 20, 2022

WORD

“He saved others, let him save himself, if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God."

OBSERVE

The Feast of Christ the King or the Solemnity of Christ the King of the Universe, was originally celebrated on the last Sunday of October, just before the All-Saints Day.

With promulgation of the new liturgical calendar by Paul VI, the feast was transferred to the last Sunday of the Ordinary Time just before the First Sunday of Advent.

The Liturgical Calendar of Paul VI follows the trajectory of the history of salvation, with the Advent Season marking the long wait for the Messiah by the people of the Old Covenant while Christ the King celebration reminds us of the glorious return of Jesus (Second Coming) which ends the temporal realm.

The old calendar, on the other hand, reminds us that before the Saints (All Saints Day) comes first the recognition that Jesus is the King of the Universe and of all those who followed him.

The saints are honored in reference to their being faithful followers of the true King, Jesus Christ.

The Gospel is a counter-cultural reminder that the kingship of Jesus is different from that of the earthly ruler, which comes from their strength.

The kingship of Jesus is not the absence of power, he has power, but it is a different kind of power.

Gandhi exemplified the use of power based on weakness with his “non-violence” movement.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, you have given your Son authority over Heaven and earth.

Yet, we are still surrounded by evils brought by earthly power.

We await his reign as Prince of Peace over us.

We pray this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

DISCERN