Jesus is our suffering Messiah and the King of the Universe! These are two very paradoxical titles when taken in the context of a worldly view. In our day and age kings are seen as rulers who command their subjects and are themselves very wealthy and very powerful. Jesus was indeed powerful and kingly, but NOT in the ways the world saw Him then or even now! To be crucified was a humiliation which was indeed, part of the punishment intended. Yet, on the Cross, Jesus accomplishes the work His Father gave Him to do and at the same time, He affirms and validates His Kingship over all creation. He SAVES us which kings are supposed to do. Kings must take care of their kingdom, their people. Some kings do that work in today’s world; nevertheless, at the same time, some rulers who are kings look after only their own needs and wants. Jesus Christ is the one and true King of this Universe. He does what He says! He represents the absolute meaning of KINGSHIP! He loves and cares for ALL OF HIS PEOPLE with His own LIFE. He is the mediator who made and makes things right between His Father and all of us! Thus, we are FRIENDS, yes, special and sacred friends, of the King of the Universe! Alleluia!
As we praise Jesus and honor Him on this day at the conclusion of the liturgical year, we celebrate our Christian and Catholic Family because we are BROTHERS and SISTERS of the KING! What will you do today to make the world better because you are FRIENDS with the KING?
Sister Diane Marie Corrado, CSFN
