Today is the last Sunday in ordinary time. We will be entering a new phase in the liturgical life of the Church. The gospel reading today couldn't be more appropriate on the feast we are celebrating - the Solemnity of Christ the King. In the passage written by John, Jesus stands in front of Pilate - a scene of obvious contrast. Pilate is rich and has access to military power while Jesus is poor and shackled as a prisoner. When they discuss the question of kingship, it is very clear that Pilate has in mind political power and Jesus has in mind a different power, which is beyond the earth could have known.
Jesus is testifying on the truth that the only truly effective and lasting power in the world is that of unselfish love. This truth is so revolutionary that it can only be believed and experienced with the gift of faith. Here, the King of Kings is bound as a prisoner because He loves others and He will soon give His very own life for love of them. This love that Jesus demonstrated on the cross will conquer the hearts of millions, while the earthly power of Pilate will fall into the ground.
Sometimes we find it difficult to believe that quiet, gentle and persistent love, which only seeks the good of others, can be more powerful than all money and missiles combined on which we rely for security. We need to open ourselves to all the ways that God manifests His love for us. It is only then that we can trust the unconditional love of God in spite of much evil in this world and use that love to transform the universe, one life at a time.
Jesus is testifying on the truth that the only truly effective and lasting power in the world is that of unselfish love. This truth is so revolutionary that it can only be believed and experienced with the gift of faith. Here, the King of Kings is bound as a prisoner because He loves others and He will soon give His very own life for love of them. This love that Jesus demonstrated on the cross will conquer the hearts of millions, while the earthly power of Pilate will fall into the ground.
Sometimes we find it difficult to believe that quiet, gentle and persistent love, which only seeks the good of others, can be more powerful than all money and missiles combined on which we rely for security. We need to open ourselves to all the ways that God manifests His love for us. It is only then that we can trust the unconditional love of God in spite of much evil in this world and use that love to transform the universe, one life at a time.
RSS Feed