*REFLECTION:* 34TH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR *_(B)_*
The Solemnity Of *The Lord Jesus Christ, King Of The Universe*
_24th November 2024_
Daniel 7:13-14
Psalms 93:1ab.1d-2.5 (R.1a)
Revelation 1:5-8
John 18:33b-37
*’SO YOU ARE A KING?’*
What makes you powerful, and why were you given charge over another? So much has gone wrong with man’s definition of power. If you define control or dominance to mean a forceful imposition of one’s will on another, then something is lacking in your understanding of it. The moment you begin to raise your voice about your ability to enforce control on another, you are more of a tyrant, and must be declared as not to be trusted. Who then are you?
Remember that the world has expectations, and so anything short of that mark will be criticized. In *1 Kings 21:5-10,* Jezebel could not stomach the reason why her husband refused to eat, on account of Naboth’s refusal to let go of his vineyard to him. If you fail to use your power or position for oppression; many around you will remind you of who you are, and what you should do to exert your place and authority. Today, many want to associate with persons in power, for obvious reasons.
On the cross, one of the criminals as recorded in *Luke 23:39,* reminded Jesus of His power and ability to save Himself and save them. Even amongst His close followers, power and ambition stirred in their heart the question, ‘who is the greatest.’ In *Matthew 18:1* His disciples came to Him and asked, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” Even in the church today, so much tussle for power and position has raised a war against the spirit of the Lord, that Has come to make us one.
Today is the *Solemnity of Christ the King.* As the King of the universe, His kingdom is not one that will end or be left empty; His dominion will last forever. People see the word kingdom ‘to mean _power, glory and triumph;_ for Christ it means *service.’* Although the kingdom of Christ has faced and will continue to face opposition, its reign will endure beyond time and season. *Daniel 7:14b* said His kingdom shall not pass away, neither shall it be destroyed.
Let all rise and celebrate the kingdom of Christ that is not of this world. *Mark 11:10b* said, “Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is coming!” The answer that Pilate sought from Him was unnecessary *(cf. John 18:33b-37),* since His Kingdom is not of this world. *Origen* in his discourse on _prayer_ said, “For the Kingdom of God is within us and in our hearts.” Thus he enjoined us to pray to the Father in heaven saying: ‘hallowed be thy name; they kingdom come.’ Raise your voice in worship of the King whose kingship means salvation and justice. “All races will worship the Lord to whom all sovereignty belongs; he shall reign for ever and ever.”
*O Christ My King:* I bow in worship of Your Holy name, I kneel before Your throne that is established beyond the control of any power on earth or in heaven. May Your kingdom come in my heart and soul today. Amen.
Fr. *Stephen* O. C.Ss.R
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