The reign of God, observed o this Christ the King/Reign of Christ Sunday, unfolds wherever people choose to live under God’s authority. Witness to the truth of God’s reign may unsettle those in power who presume authority that is not theirs. The wisdom and power of God’s realm overarches all. Jesus invites us to enter this wise reign of God as the holy friends of God and earth.
Being human, we always try to shape truth to our desires, rather than shaping our longings to the truth which God offers to us through the simple acts of trust, of faith. Our word “obedience” from the Latin oboedire, means “to listen attentively; to be alert to the other.” It is in being alert to the Holy Other, Jesus tells us, that we can find that freedom we are searching for, that freedom found in truth. It is in listening attentively to the sigs of the Spirit which are whispered to us in the night hours, in listening patiently to the songs God teaches us in the beauty of creation, in listening quietly to the one who is Truth who reminds all of us, and each of us, that there is that truth which brings life, life lived in service to others, so they might know the truth as well.
Personal Reflection:
Challenged by Pilate, who seems to want to set Jesus free, Jesus stands his ground. He has come to testify to the truth and proclaim God’s message of unconditional and never-ending love, and nothing will stop him from doing that, not even death.
- Think about the message Jesus came to proclaim, in words and actions. What are some ways you can continue to proclaim that same message?
- This week, look for examples of the reign of God in the world around you.