THE SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THE KING

Gospel: (John 18:33-37)

Pilate said to Jesus, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered, "Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?" Pilate answered, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?" Jesus answered, "My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here." So Pilate said to him, "Then you are a King?" Jesus answered, "You say I am a King. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."

Reflection:

Living the paschal mystery means that we see the victorious Christ even in the everyday trials and difficulties that we face. Living the paschal mystery means that we are ever faithful to the rhythm of dying and rising as it unfolds every day—in our prayer, work, leisure. Living the paschal mystery means that we are mediators for those whom we meet—that we are the body of Christ leading others to holier and happier lives. If someone should then ask us, "What have you done?" our answer would come quickly and surely—we have served our King. (Living Liturgy, p. 250)

Vincentian Meditation:

As you serve Christ your King, be an open door that is fully open to others, especially the poor. Be an open door to the members in your Conference, that is, be honest, truthful and simple in your relationships with one another. Be an open door to all: allow people to use you, to pass through you. Allow people to take you for granted. Be an open door by being humble. An open door does not discriminate, allowing some to pass and some not. Open the door of your heart widely to those who claim a little more understanding from you. Open the door of your heart so widely that you can belong to the truth and listen to the voice of Jesus. (McCullen, Deep Down Things, p.113)

Discussion: (Share thoughts on the readings after a moment of silence)

    How can you become more of an "open door"?

Closing Prayer:

    Let us pray to Christ our King, source of compassion and love,
        - may we bring peace to all who have lost hope.
    For the wisdom to listen to God's voice,
        -may we become an open door to all.
    For the courage to work untiringly for peace and justice,
        -may your kingdom come! Amen