Christ the King Solemnity (Thirty-Fourth and Last Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Also Read: Mass Readings for 26 November 2023 Mass Reading Reflection for 26 November 2023
Gospel: Matthew 25: 31-46
“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.”
Let us never forget these simple words of Jesus. They remind us of a couple of realities:
1. We all shall be judged by Jesus Himself,
2. The ultimate question is how merciful you are, and
3. Jesus considers the underprivileged as his own brothers.
This Sunday we are concluding the liturgical year celebrating the solemnity of Christ the King. The Church, through the liturgy, is preparing us to meet and greet Christ the King at the end of our earthly sojourn. Our liturgy is constantly reminding us of the purpose of our lives.
Our rich liturgy prompts us and helps us to meet and greet one another daily. We need to meet and greet one another with joy, love, and compassion.
We read in Genesis the story of Abel and Cane. When God asked Cane where is his brother, he had a counter question, “Am I the keeper of my brother?” Jesus is answering that question beyond doubt, saying that we are indeed guardians to one another and responsible for the safety and well-being of our brothers and sisters. He goes on to explain that everyone in need is His brothers and sisters.
Compassion is the ultimate yardstick. If our liturgical celebrations do not make us a little more compassionate, we do not celebrate the liturgy at all. Jesus is the celebration of the compassion of God the Father. Through His words and the celebrations of the various sacraments, Jesus is inviting us to be more compassionate day by day.
May this great solemnity of Christ the King open our eyes wider to see Jesus in every hungry and thirsty man. May He continue to help us to open our hearts and doors to those in need of shelter and our time and presence.
Yes, the king is coming, His beloved brothers and sisters are already around. Let us keep our eyes open to welcome them. Let us be ready to take over the chosen spot, on time.
Amen.
