Let Christ the King of the Universe Reign in your Life 

Readings: 1^st: Ez 34:11-17; Ps: 22:1-6; 2^nd: I Cor 15:20-28; Gos: Mt 25:31-46

This brief reflection was written by Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans). He is a missionary in Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment. He is the Chancellor of the Dioceses of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico; the Parish Priest of Parroquia la Resurrección del Senor, Canóvanas, and the Major Superior of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans), Circumscription of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. For more details and comments contact him at canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

The thirty fourth Sunday of ordinary time marks the end of every liturgical year. Most importantly, it is the solemnity of Christ the King. The Feast of Christ the King was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925 against the deadly influence of Secularism. The feast is intended to proclaim in a resounding and effective way, Christ’s royalty over all nations.

In the first reading of today, the Lord through prophet Ezekiel reassures us of his continuous care for us: “I am going to look after my flock myself… I shall be a true shepherd to them….” One remarkable thing about this reading is that for nine times, the personal pronoun “I” was employed. First, this is to convey God’s personal interest in his flock. Second, this was to prove his promises already fulfilled in Jesus Christ in our time.

In this reading also, God presented “the manifesto” of his reign to be headed by Christ. God’s own manifesto is different from those presented to us by politicians of our days: “free education, housing, medical care, transportation, low taxation, more jobs, low income rates etc.” They never fulfill their promises before the end of their tenure in office.

In contrast, the manifesto of God is absolutely different, because it is real and true. It is not charity with a hook. This is because, God is a faithful King: “God is not human, that he should lie. Does he speak, and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill? (Nu 23:19). Never!

In the second reading, Paul reminds us of Christ’s kingship and reign. He will continue to maintain his reign until He conquers death, our last enemy. Christ accomplished a task that no other could. That is, the defeat of sin and Satan through his own death. It was a hundred percent and total knockout.

He did it: “By canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands…nailing it to the cross and by triumphing over them…” (Col 2, 14). He did it for our sake, and for the sake of his kingdom. So, we must abide with him who shed his blood for us. We must be part of his kingdom. We owe him homage every day of our life because, He is the King of kings.

Today’s gospel reminds us of the reign of Christ. His reign, is that of justice. He will judge each according to his deeds. There will be no corruption, embezzlement, manipulation, or structural injustices during his reign. Rather, “…He will judge among the nations; and they will reshape their swords as plowshares and their spears as pruning hooks. No nation will threaten another, nor will they train for war anymore, and His scepter shall be peace and justice” (Is 2:4).

Where is Christ supposed to reign? Of course, first, in our hearts! So, it suffices to note that, today’s celebration would be meaningful, only if we personally permit Christ to reign in our lives. If he reigns in every heart, then he reigns in our world. If he reigns there already, then rejoice and celebrate.  If not, then let us ask him today, to come in and reign. He says to us: “I stand at the door waiting, if you open I will come in to eat and dine with him” (Rev 3, 20). 

In conclusion, as we celebrate Christ the King of the universe today, let us permit him to be truly in control of the kingdom of our heart because as the “Bonus pastor,” If we make Him the king of our lives, we shall lack nothing, and surely, his goodness and mercy shall follow us, all the days of our life. And of course, we shall dwell peacefully in His palace.

Peace be with you!

Maranatha!