King of the universe, King of our hearts
Reflections on the readings for the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (November 22, 2020): EZ 34:11-12,15-17; PS 23:1-2,2-3,5-6; 1 COR 15:20-26,28; MT 25:31-46
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
As we contemplate the Second Coming of Christ and the final judgment, we need not feel dread. He offers His boundless mercy to everyone who follows His way.
On this last Sunday in Ordinary Time, we honor and adore Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Before we enter the Season of Advent, we take this day to focus on our Savior who lived and died and rose again for us – and who will also destroy death at the end of the world. Death is the last enemy; Jesus is the Victor and He shares His triumph with us. “For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life, but each one in proper order: Christ the firstfruits; then, as His coming, those who belong to Christ; then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to His God and Father… so that God may be all in all” (1 Corinthians 15:22-24, 28). The evil power of sin will be everlastingly obliterated.
As we contemplate the Second Coming of Christ and the final judgment, we need not feel dread. He offers His boundless mercy to everyone who follows His way. If we offer help to our poor and troubled brothers and sisters in their struggles, we are revealing the depth of our love for our Lord as well. Even if we sometimes fail, we have only to ask pardon and try again. God wants each of us with Him in heaven. Speaking of Christ the King, Pope Francis reminds us, “Jesus is the center of creation: and so the attitude demanded of us as true believers is that of recognizing and accepting in our lives the centrality of Jesus Christ, in our thoughts, in our words and in our works.” Let us remember each day that our Redeemer is not only the King of the Universe, but also the King of our hearts. Let us thank Him for loving us so much and desiring our own love in return.
Suggested missionary action: We can honor our Redeemer and King by caring for those in need. We can assist them materially as we are able and also by taking time to reach out in words and acts of loving-kindness and with our prayers.
