34th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

The solemnity of CHRIST THE KING 👑 YEAR C First Reading:2 Samuel 5:1-3 Second Reading:Colossians 1:12-20 Gospel:Luke 23:35-43 In Year C of the liturgical cycle, the Solemnity of Christ the King (Gospel reading Luke 23:35-43) presents the paradox of Jesus' kingship: He reigns not from an earthly throne, but from the Cross, His throne of sacrificial love and mercy. A Kingdom Not of This World: The rulers and soldiers mock Jesus, challenging Him to save Himself if He is truly the "King of the Jews". They expect a king of power, military might, and worldly glory. Jesus, however, subverts these expectations entirely; His power is demonstrated through humility, suffering, and an unconditional, self-sacrificing love for others. His kingdom is one of truth, justice, love, and peace, which is already present among us but will only be fully realized in eternity. The Cross as a Throne: The inscription above Jesus' head, "This is the King of the Jews," intended as a mockery, becomes an ironic proclamation of His true royal identity. The cross, an instrument of torture and shame, is transformed into the throne from which Christ dispenses His ultimate mercy and salvation. The Repentant Thief: A Model of Faith: Amidst the jeers, one of the criminals hanging beside Jesus has an extraordinary moment of faith. He recognizes Jesus' innocence and divinity, asking, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom". Jesus' immediate and gracious response, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise," highlights that access to His kingdom is through humble repentance and a personal surrender to His authority, regardless of one's past sins. Our Call to Action: Celebrating Christ the King requires us to examine our own lives and "dethrone" anything that takes precedence over Christ. We are called to accept Him as the king of our hearts and to live according to His law of love, serving others, especially the poor and marginalized, with humility and compassion. This is how we become citizens of His kingdom and help to build it on earth. In essence, today's solemnity reminds us that true power lies in loving service and forgiveness. By embracing the way of the cross in our own lives, we align ourselves with the reign of Christ the King, the one who loved us enough to die for us and open the gates to eternal life. #fyp #catholicpriest #preachingthegospel #spreadingtheword #christtheking