20 November 2022 Christ the King
The Lord said to you: It is you who shall be shepherd of my people Israel, you who shall be ruler over Israel.’ So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron; and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel.
2 Samuel 5:1-3, NRSV
On the day on which the Church celebrates the Kingship of Christ, we hear in our first reading about the anointing of another king. The fascinating story of David’s life shows him to have been both a highly charismatic and influential person but also flawed and at timed lacking in judgement. Whatever his imperfections, it was through David that God’s promise of eternal kingship was promised. It was this promise that sustained the hope of Israel through their many trials and sorrows. As Christians we believe that this promised was fulfilled in Jesus whose kingship, in the words of a well-known hymn, showed us a “new way to be great” and whose kingdom welcomes all.
- Why do you think God chose to deliver such an important message to a man who did not always follow God’s law?
- Why is the kingship of Christ celebrated each year?
Take the opportunities that are presented to you today to offer service to others – especially those who are vulnerable or marginalised.
Image – Statue of Christ the King Świebodzin (Poland)
