Christ, Jesus Our King

When we hear the word "king," we often picture earthly rulers with armies, power, and expansive lands. But Jesus’ kingship is different, marked not by earthly power but by humility and love.

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

The readings for Christ the King Sunday give us a look into this unique kingdom. In the Book of Daniel (Daniel 7:13-14), the prophet receives a vision of “One like a son of man” coming with the clouds, who is given everlasting dominion, glory, and kingship. For the people of Daniel’s time, living under foreign rule, this vision was a powerful promise: God’s kingdom would one day bring freedom, hope, and peace. In the Gospel, as Jesus stands before Pontius Pilate, he reveals the nature of his kingdom. When Pilate questions, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answers, “My kingdom is not of this world.” Jesus does not rule with force, but through humility and compassion.

Living the Gospel

Throughout his ministry, Jesus often called himself the “Son of Man,” directly linking himself to Daniel’s vision. He fulfils the prophecy, bringing God’s kingdom to us in a way that challenges our expectations. His kingdom is a kingdom of the heart, transforming us from within. Jesus invites us to be part of his kingdom, putting his love, peace and justice in our everyday actions. We follow his example by living honestly and through small acts of compassion, a kind word, a helping hand. We honor Jesus as our King when we live in a way that reflects his love and we become beacons of hope, revealing the presence of his kingdom here on earth.