Friends, today we are celebrating the solemnity of Christ the King, which marks the definitive end of the church’s ordinary time, and of course, the entire liturgical calendar year B. Let us acknowledge and adore Christ as the King of kings, the Lord of lords, and the beginning and the end. This feast was instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925 in response to growing nationalism and secularism. It was also instituted to promote the worship of Christ both in the privacy of our hearts, as well as publicly. The title of the feast was “Jesu Christi Regis” which means “Jesus Christ the King.” Then in his “Motu Proprio Mysterii Paschalis” of 1969, Pope Paul VI gave the celebration a new title; “Jesu Christi Universorum Regis” which means “Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.” He also moved the celebration to the last Sunday in the liturgical calendar and transformed it from a feast to a “Solemnity.” Brothers and sisters, through the readings of today, we see His eternal kingdom, His role as the faithful witness, and His call to humble service. By embracing Jesus as our King, we enter into a kingdom of peace, love, and eternal joy. Lord Jesus, King of kings, help us to follow Your example of humble service. Guide us to live in Your truth and love. May we always seek to serve others and honor You as our eternal King.
Friends, in the first reading of today from Daniel 7:13-14, we see a vision of “one like a Son of man” coming with the clouds of heaven. This figure receives all authority, glory, and a kingdom that will never end. This vision points to Jesus and His eternal kingship. Jesus’ kingdom is different from any earthly kingdom. Earthly kings come and go, but Jesus’ rule is everlasting. He has all the power and authority given by God. His kingdom is one of peace, justice, and love that will never fade away. Brothers and sisters, Daniel’s vision shows all people, nations, and languages serving Jesus. This universal reign of Christ includes everyone. Jesus invites all of us into His kingdom, regardless of our background. His kingship is for everyone who believes and follows Him. Friends, the Solemnity of Christ the King Year B reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus’ eternal kingdom. Unlike earthly kings who take and rule by power, Jesus rules with love and service. His kingdom is eternal and unshakable. We can find true peace and joy by being part of His everlasting kingdom.
Friends, in the second reading of today from Revelation 1:5-8, Jesus is called the “faithful witness,” the “firstborn from the dead,” and the “ruler of the kings of the earth.” These titles show His power and His role as our King and Savior. Jesus’ faithfulness is central to His kingship. He came to testify to the truth and to show us the way to God. By His death and resurrection, He freed us from our sins and opened the path to eternal life. His sacrifice is a clear sign of His love and commitment to us. Brothers and sisters, as the ruler of the kings of the earth, Jesus has authority over all creation. His kingdom is not limited by time or space. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. His eternal reign brings hope and security, knowing that He is in control. The second reading of this Sunday reminds us that Jesus will come again in glory. Every eye will see Him, and all will recognize His kingship. This promise encourages us to remain faithful and to live according to His teachings. Let us honor Jesus as our King. His love, sacrifice, and authority are unmatched. By following Him, we become part of His eternal kingdom, where true peace and joy are found.
Friends, the Gospel of today shows Pilate judging Jesus by the world’s standards. We often judge others the same way. We look at their clothes, status, and actions. This reveals what we think is important. Pilate saw kingship as earthly power and control. When the Israelites asked for a king, God warned them of the heavy burdens a human king would bring. Worldly kings take from their people and rule through fear and power. They demand service and take what they want. Brothers and sisters, Jesus’ kingship is different. He gives rather than takes. At the Last Supper, Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, showing that true kingship means serving others. Jesus does not seek to be served, but to serve. He is humble and preaches truth, not manipulating through fear. Christ the King does not need human respect. His humility is a model for us. Imagine how free we would be if we were like Him, motivated only by our relationship with God. We would seek to please the Father above all else.
Friends, let us acknowledge and worship Christ as “the king of the universe.” We must allow Him to reign in our lives. If He reigns in every heart, our families, society and our entire world would be a better place. So, today’s celebration challenges us to ask ourselves this very important question; “Is Christ reigning in my life? Today’s celebration would be of no use, if we have not given Christ the chance to reign in our lives, in our families, businesses, and our entire world. Brothers and sisters, we are invited today to see Christ the King must be our role model. He should be a model to all kings, rulers, and leaders. He cares, loves, and lives in peace with his people. He does not rule with military might or financial strength. Instead, he is a good Shepherd. The Lord be with you …. May the almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Have a Blessed Sunday and a Fruitful New Week to You
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By: Fr. Ben Chola mccj
Aka Omuntu Wa Bantu
