The Solemnity Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Pilate find himself judging the true King. Just like Truth, Jesus’ kingdom is above and beyond human control. His kingdom extends to everything in the universe — stars and planets, stuff, animals, even our own lives. There is only one thing Christ the King does not rule: Your heart. You have free will; you have control over your own heart, mind, and soul.

Unlike all the powers of this world, Jesus will not force us to obey Him. He offers, invites, encourages. The choice is ours. But we don’t choose who is King. Jesus is already the King. You choose to join His kingdom, or you choose to remain outside.

The Kingdom of God contains goodness, truth, holiness, love, joy, peace, happiness and life itself. God does not allow into his kingdom lies, sins, hatred, violence, suffering, death. If our hearts are filled with these things, we will not be able to enter the Kingdom of God.

Do you choose Christ as your King? Then what about your stuff — do you treat it as God’s property? How about your life and your gifts and talents — do you use them for the glory of God and the building up of others? What about your family and your sexual life — does it respect the integrity of yourself and others, and represent a true gift? How about your mind — do you fill your mind with the things of God’s kingdom?

The king invites us but he will not force us. Do you want to enter God’s kingdom? Then you must allow the Kingdom of God to enter you.

(22 Nov 2015)

Point to Ponder: Do I understand that I am a steward of the property entrusted to me, and use it for God’s glory? Take a look at your family budget and see if you are truly being generous, as God is generous to you.

Point to Discuss: We have all seen in recent news reports the bitter fruits that grow when people cultivate hatred, violence, and revenge in their hearts. Talk to a friend about a positive story that shows what good can happen when someone lives as a child of the King.