Brought into the Kingdom

Before Vatican II the Solemnity of Christ the King was the last Sunday in October. In my home parish this was the weekend for First Communion and every third year Confirmation. So I am fond of this feast as an anniversary, although now the Solemnity rightfully occurs on the last Sunday of the Church Year (this year November 22).

Kings and kingdoms may sound pompous, but the Gospels for Christ the King show a humble and generous King This year (Cycle A) the King welcomes into the kingdom those who feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and visit the sick and imprisoned.  Last year (Cycle C) the King from his cross welcomes a thief: “Today you will be with me in paradise.” And in Cycle B Jesus tells Pilate that he has come into the world as a King to testify to the truth. Every year Jesus turns the focus away from himself and on his People. May humility, truth, and generosity characterize our world leaders, and may those virtues characterize us, so that we will be welcomed into the Kingdom.