Sunday Scripture Readings

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solemnity of our lord

jesus christ the king,

November 25

2 Samuel 5:1-3; Psalm 122;

Colossians 1:12-20; Luke 23:25-43 OUR GOOD NEWS: Christ's present and future Kingship, and what it means for us. Like a TV camera covering the event, Luke guides our contemplation of our crucified Savior. First, a panoramic shot of "the people" who watch silently, curious and uninvolved, theirs the callous cruelty that makes of terrible human suffering a diverting spectacle. Next, a closer look at "the leaders" dominating the scene with insults and much posturing. These loudly justify what they helped bring about, "proving" that a genuine Messiah would use power and privilege for personal advantage. Nearer still, "the soldiers," Jew-baiting riffraff playing their cruel game, serving "sour wine" to Jewish royalty. Then, a closeup of Pilate's placard, a rare example of Roman "humor" - such the inevitable fate of anyone claiming to be "King of the Jews." Further mockery: one of the condemned "criminals" siding with bullies to avoid being bullied. "Are you not the Christ! Save yourself and us." The other crucified criminal's reply interrupts this drama of pure hatred. He showed penitence by accepting deserved punishment, fearlessly proclaiming Jesus' innocence, implicitly professing him Messiah, asking to be included among those raised up on the Last Day - "when you come as king." Finally, a close-up of the King, enthroned and exercising royal power. Surrounded by a sea of uncaring people and viciousness, he returned only love. About to hand over his own earthly life, he gives eternal life to a sinner. "Today you will be with me in Paradise." Messianic authority is revealed in suffering and weakness; the Reconciler brings royal peace to all willing to receive it. Today's first reading describing David's installation as King of Israel provides helpful background for the Gospel account of Jesus' crucifixion. Christians have always understood Jesus' role in terms of Old Testament kingship. Israel had but one king, God himself; human sovereigns served only as deputies ruling in his name and on his behalf. In addition to their function as saviors of the people, a number of psalms show Jerusalem kings filling a sacred role as visible, human manifestations of the divine presence. We focus our hope in Jesus as "Son" (descendant) of David, the first and greatest in the royal line. According to today's brief account of David's anointing (coronation), Jesus qualifies as our king for the same three reasons recommending his illustrious ancestor. First, by his Incarnation: Jesus is truly our own "flesh and blood." Second, through his public life, especially his Passion, death and resurrection. Just as David was the only possible candidate because he had already exercised the office ("led out and brought in Israel"), Jesus deserved our royal acclamation as savior and revealer of the hidden Godhead. Finally, prior divine commissioning authorizes and commands our acceptance. Just as God earlier declared to David that he would "shepherd my people," the Father repeatedly designated Jesus - at Baptism and Transfiguration, definitively at Ascension and enthronement - as our leader and Good Shepherd. Christ reigns!