Feast of Christ The King

 


FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING


We’re navigating through familiar territory when we review this weekend’s first reading. We have grown accustomed to the portrayal of Lord as Shepherd (see Ezk. 34:10-31). However, we’re beginning to drift into less-familiar territory as we turn our attention to the next two readings. The shepherding imagery gives way to an emphasis on the Lord’s authority. It’s an authority that surpasses all other levels of authority (see 1st Cor. 15:24-28). Ultimately, it’s an authority that will be revealed to its fullest extent at the end of time, when judgment is passed on the living and the dead (see Matt. 25:31-46). 


It’s very likely that we would rather focus upon the shepherding aspect. We want to hear about his compassion, his willingness to search for the lost sheep. And we get plenty of this as we make our way through the course of the church year. Yet this is the one weekend where we face up to his supreme brand of authority. He is not just “Shepherd” but also KING. He has been endowed with a particular capacity, and he will follow through on this capacity, when the appointed time finally arrives.  


Consider for example, the television character known to us as Andy Taylor. If memory serves, you’ll recall him as the father of Opie. And you’ll recall that Andy functions as a good neighbor within the community of Mayberry. Yes, he is the father of Opie. And he does offer a neighborly influence within the community of Mayberry. Let’s also appreciate the fact that he happens to be the sheriff. This means that he wears a badge of authority. He displays his soft side, for the most part. But sometimes he has to be the sheriff. Sometimes he has to make arrests. 


Usually, this has no bearing upon the regular members of the cast. Nevertheless, we do find Otis spending periods of time in jail. Furthermore, Goober serves time in one of the later episodes. Therefore, Andy can be described as somebody who prefers to be the nice guy, the good neighbor. Still, when prompted, he can transition from neighbor to enforcer. He possesses authority and he’s prepared to impose this authority when necessary. 


Today, we’re saying something very similar about the person of Jesus. We try hard not to think about his divine authority. Perhaps we feel that it’s something we can ignore. And yet, here we are, faced with this solemn feast—the Feast of Christ the King. It’s a solemn feast conveying a solemn message: the badge of authority is not something we can afford to ignore.  

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