Christ the King

Nov.22^nd 2015  Sunday Homily: Fr.Francis Chirackal CMI

Dn7:13-14; Rv 1:5-8; Jn 18:33-37

 For Readings

http://www.usccb.org/nab/112215.shtml

 

Look at the Constitution of most of the countries in the world, they are secular in nature. Does a secular nature of a constitution mean that it has nothing to do with faith in God and religious values? It is obvious that ‘secular nature’ doesn’t mean, ‘No role to God and religious values’. The framers of Constitutions of India, America, England and many others certainly did believe that religion and religious values should influence the government and its policies. George Washington’s first Proclamation as President made this reality very clear. On the day that Congress finished its work on the First Amendment, they called on Washington to issue a Proclamation to the people of the United States to thank God for the freedoms we enjoy. A week and a day later the President’s opening paragraph in his Proclamation said: "Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor . . ."[2]. ‘Vidhana Soudha’ is a magnificent building in Bangalore which is the Seat of Power, the capitol of the State of Karnataka in India. At the top of the front wall of this building, everybody can see the inscription with big letters which reads ‘Government Work is God’s Work.’ People who read this inscription on this government building feel very happy and comfortable. It is true with many other countries and states.

Once upon a time there were two powerful kings who were appealing for followers to conquer the world.  Seated on his throne in royal splendor, the one king said: “If you follow me, I will give you everything you desire–riches, power, prestige–everything you want to make you totally independent.  You will not need anyone–not even God.  Just accept my ways of getting these things and all is yours.”  The other king, walking among the people, said: “If you follow me you must live as I live–simply, struggling to bring the message of truth to others, accepting rejection, suffering–possibly even death for the sake of the kingdom.  I promise you that I will always be with you.  You will have a peaceful, joyful heart in the struggle and a glorious victory.”  We know who conquered the whole world and still lives and rules even after 2000 years, while the other ones became part of the ground.

Julian the Apostate was one of the Roman emperors, who distinguished themselves by their fanatical zeal in persecuting the early Christians. In the days of his prosperity he is said to have pointed his dagger to heaven, defying Jesus whom he commonly called the Galilean.  But when he was wounded in battle and saw that all was over with him, he gathered up his clotted blood and threw it into the air, exclaiming, “Thou hast conquered, O Galilean!”

Today we celebrate the ‘Feast of Christ the King’ acknowledging the sovereignty of Christ our King over all earthly powers, kingdoms and peoples. In contrast to secular kings He defined His role as King to humble service, and commanded His followers to be servants as well.

Today’s first reading from the Book of Daniel, tells us that the Son of man would receive from God his Father's dominion and sovereignty over all peoples, nations and languages. In the second reading, John reminds us that Christ will return in glory and majesty and we will have to stand before His tribunal and see our life's work laid bare.

 In the gospel we find that His kingdom is connected to His suffering and death. Even though Christ is coming at the end of the ages to judge the nations, His teachings spell out a kingdom of justice and judgment that are balanced with radical love, mercy, peace, and forgiveness. So when we celebrate Christ as King, we are not celebrating an oppressive ruler, but the One who came to this world, to die for humanity and whose "loving-kindness endures forever." Christ is the king who gives us true freedom. He is our eternal King, all-powerful and all-loving. He promised victory to all his faithful followers who share his mission. 

Jesus himself said that the rulers of the earth lord over their subjects, but Jesus rules his kingdom of love and divine providence with his self-sacrificing love and service. In Jesus’ kingdom, there is no place for self-seeking power mongers and greedy ones, but to self-giving and peace loving people of real love and service. Here one becomes great by serving the least one. Jesus’ kingship makes our lives ever anew and stronger. There is no room for distress or frustration, only hope and gladness. There, weakness becomes the strength and emptiness becomes the fullness. The other becomes the self and the self becomes the other, as the life of the same God lives in all. Let us enthrone Christ as the King of our heart and home, so that no powers of the netherworld will touch or shake our lives and the real peace and joy will reign in our heart and homes.

It is said that, if there is nothing above us, we will be consumed by all that is around us. If Christ is not our King, then the principalities and powers of this world will rule us, making our lives a loss. Therefore let us submit ourselves fully to the rule of Christ. Let Him be the King of our hearts, families, communities and nation. Let us be passionate in following His rules and footsteps. God bless you.