What does it mean to recognize and receive Christ as King? On this last Sunday after Pentecost, Canon Jonathan reminds us why it matters so deeply. Only the reign of Jesus can anchor our hope and provide a way forward in a world filled with leaders who often misuse their power and harm the vulnerable. Many in Jesus’ day misunderstood him, because they couldn’t imagine a king who wouldn’t use his power to save himself. But some saw him clearly. Like the thief on the cross, the humble recognize their need and receive Christ the King as he is.
What does it mean to recognize and receive Christ as King? On this last Sunday after Pentecost, Canon Jonathan reminds us why it matters so deeply. Only the reign of Jesus can anchor our hope and provide a way forward in a world filled with leaders who often misuse their power and harm the vulnerable. Many in Jesus’ day misunderstood him, because they couldn’t imagine a king who wouldn’t use his power to save himself. But some saw him clearly. Like the thief on the cross, the humble recognize their need and receive Christ the King as he is.
This All Saints Day, Bishop Paul preached the fourth installment of the sermon series Jesus’ Bride, focusing on the universal or “catholic” church connected in all places and throughout all time. Because there is a “great cloud of witnesses,” those who have gone before us, we can know that we are not alone. The saints – all who have trusted Jesus and are at rest in him – inspire us to continue to run our race. Bearing witness to Jesus is the common calling that connects us to all saints at all times. May we continue to grow into his image for the sake of the world.