First reading (Daniel 7:13-14); Second reading (Revelation 1:5-8); Gospel (John 18:33-37)
The Holy Mother Church today celebrates the solemnity of Christ the King. Throughout history, countless kings and leaders have risen to power, establishing their kingdoms and empires. These rulers often commanded immense authority, their words capable of inciting both awe and terror. We remember figures like Pharaoh, who defied God and enslaved His people. Herod, who, consumed by fear, slaughtered innocent children. Nebuchadnezzar, who, in his arrogance, proclaimed himself a god. Ahab and Jezebel, on their part, spread idolatry and injustice throughout Israel, just to mention a few. These individuals ruled with an iron fist, their reigns marked by oppression, injustice, and the suffering of countless innocents.
Unfortunately, these earthly kingdoms, built on ambition and fueled by the pursuit of power, ultimately proved to be fleeting. Despite their claims to absolute authority, these rulers were still subject to the inevitable realities of time and mortality. Their kingdoms, seemingly invincible at their peak, eventually crumbled, fading into mere whispers in the annals of history. Join us as we reflect on the significance of Christ the King.
DANIEL’S VISION OF THE RISE AND FALL OF KINGDOMS
In the first reading, the Prophet Daniel receives a divine vision that contrasts sharply with the transient nature of earthly power. He witnesses the rise and fall of kingdoms, a cyclical pattern of fleeting dominance and inevitable decline. But then, amidst this tumultuous landscape, a new figure emerges: the King of kings. This King is granted everlasting dominion, a Kingdom that transcends the limitations of time and human frailty.
Undoubtedly, this prophecy finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the true King whose reign knows no end. Unlike the earthly rulers who sought to establish their kingdoms through force and domination, Christ’s Kingdom is founded on love, justice, and unwavering truth. His is a Kingdom that offers not fleeting power but eternal life and liberation from the shackles of sin.
THE CONCEPT OF A MESSIAH IN JEWISH TRADITION
The Jewish concept of the Messiah envisions a future leader who would restore peace and justice in Israel. The Jews, longing for liberation from Roman oppression, yearned for a Messiah who would overthrow their oppressors by force. Many of them anticipated a political and military leader who would restore Israel to its former glory, vanquishing their enemies and establishing a new era of earthly dominance.
However, Jesus Christ came to redefine kingship, demonstrating that true power lies not in military might or political maneuvering but in humble service and unwavering love. His kingdom is not a worldly kingdom but a spiritual one, established in the hearts of those who chose to follow Him. This radical concept challenged the expectations of those who longed for a political revolution, revealing a deeper, more profound understanding of true liberation.
CHRIST’S KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD
In today’s gospel reading, Jesus stood before Pilate, being accused of claiming to be a king. Pilate, a man accustomed to the brutal realities of Roman power, struggled to comprehend the nature of Christ’s kingship. He saw only a seemingly powerless man, unjustly accused and facing a humiliating death.
However, Jesus Christ made a profound declaration, “My Kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). It is not built on military might, political maneuvering, or the subjugation of others. He further told Pilate that He came into the world to bear witness to the truth (John 18:37). Hence, His Kingdom is rooted in a different kind of power—the power of love, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to truth. This radical concept challenges the very foundations of earthly power structures, revealing their inherent limitations and ultimately fleeting nature.
CHRIST THE KING: A SERVANT LEADER
Unlike the tyrannical rulers of history, Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, entered the world not with pomp and circumstance but as a humble servant. He embodied a radical redefinition of Kingship, one that prioritizes love, humility, obedience, truth, holiness, mercy, justice, equity, and fairness. His own Kingdom, inaugurated here on earth as the Church, is destined for its full realization in heaven. It is a Kingdom where true greatness is found not in wielding power over others but in serving them with love and humility.
Moreover, Christ’s example challenges us to re-examine our understanding of leadership, urging us to embrace a model of servant leadership that reflects His selflessness and compassion. As Christians, in situations that require witness to the faith, we should not be ashamed of professing Christ the King. We must profess Him without equivocation.
THE FEAR OF LOSING ONE’S POSITION
The fear of losing power often blinds leaders to the true nature of authority. Certainly, the arrival of a true King often inspires fear in those who cling to earthly power. This fear stems from the realization that their authority is but a pale imitation of true Kingship. We see this fear manifested in the horrific massacre of the innocents in Bethlehem, as Herod, consumed by paranoia, attempted to eliminate any threat to his throne (Matthew 2:16–18).
Even today, those who crave power and control often react with hostility towards anyone who challenges their authority. They resort to manipulation, slander, violence, and even diabolical schemes to silence dissenting voices and maintain their grip on power. This fear-driven response reveals the fragility of their position, highlighting the stark contrast between their fleeting dominion and the enduring reign of Christ the King.
JESUS CHRIST REVEALS HIS TRUE IDENTITY
The second reading reveals the true identity of Jesus Christ: “The Alpha and Omega, who is and who was and who is to come” (Revelation 1:8). He is the beginning and the end, the one who has freed us from the bondage of sin through His sacrifice. He has established a Kingdom where we, His subjects, are called to serve God and one another with love and humility. The establishment of the Kingdom of God has its foundation in the reconciliation of humanity with God, carried out in Christ and through Christ in the paschal mystery.
Moreover, this Kingdom is not a distant reality but a present reality that we are invited to participate in here and now. It is a Kingdom built on love, forgiveness, and the transformative power of grace. As citizens of this Kingdom, we are called to embrace the love of God. Also, to be ambassadors of Christ’s love, reflecting His compassion and mercy in our interactions with others.
CONCLUSION
Dearly beloved, as followers of Christ the King, we are called to reflect on our own lives. Also, we are reminded that true authority lies in humble service and unwavering love. So, we need to ask ourselves these pertinent questions: do we embody the humility and servant leadership of our King? Do I strive for justice, equity, and fairness in our interactions with others? Or celebrate the successes of others, offering support and encouragement instead of envy? Do I approach those in positions of authority with respect, recognizing that true leadership is rooted in service?
These are not merely rhetorical questions but invitations to examine our hearts and align our lives more closely with the teachings of Christ. As we strive to live out our faith in a world often consumed by the pursuit of power and self-interest, let us remember the example of our King, who humbled Himself even unto death on a cross, demonstrating that true greatness is found in selfless love and service.
PRAYER:
May the Almighty God, through the Power of the Holy Spirit, grant you the spirit of humility and selfless service to humanity. May He increase your faith and love for God and your fellow human beings, so that at the end, you shall reign with Christ in His Kingdom, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Peace of Christ be with you…
Rev. Fr. Benjamin Okala, C.S.Sp.
