The Solemnity Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Lectionary: 161
Sunday Says
This week we celebrate the end of the liturgical year with the great solemnity of Christ the King.
Reading 1
Daniel 7:13-14
Last week and this week, we hear from the prophet Daniel as he proclaims the prophecies of the coming King. This segment has an intense feeling when we hear the Lord described as descending from the clouds of heaven. Unlike the many kings that have come before, this kingship is entirely different in that it is everlasting and will bring peace and satisfaction.
We know that this eternal glory is not one that will disappoint us.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 93:1, 1-2, 5
- (1a) The LORD is king; he is robed in majesty.
Reading 2
Revelation 1:5-8
This week’s second reading comes from the final book in the Bible, the book of Revelation. There is a direct connection between the first and second reading that is rare among pairings of non-Gospel readings at Mass. We hear the similar telling of the descent of the Lord from heaven, but we also hear Him speak this time. He describes Himself as the Alpha and the Omega.
We also hear the proclamation of how the Lord has paid for our sins by His own blood. We know that there will be a day when all will know the Truth, even those that have rejected it for so long. As we wrap up the liturgical year, we see this as a call to action to be ready.
Alleluia Mark 11:9, 10
- Alleluia, alleluia.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is to come!
Gospel
John 18:33B-37
On this great solemnity to celebrate the end of the year we hear from St John. We hear the personal conversation between Pilate and Jesus at the moment before his condemnation to death. In His conversation, Pilate is able to pick up that Jesus really is a king, but He claims that it is not of this world.
The ending of this Gospel hits at the heart of the message for this week’s celebration. Everyone that belongs to the Truth listens to His voice. The King of the Universe has come to this earth to save souls, and He asks for our hearts in return. The price is worth it.
Viva Cristo Rey!
Christ the King
Gospel meditation from Bishop Vásquez
Reflection question
Jesus wants to be King and Lord of our lives. He freed us from sin and death. Yet, Christ invites us to turn away from worldly things to participate fully in his Kingdom. We are reminded that He is victorious. Do I live as a faithful member of the Kingdom?
