This Sunday is the last Sunday in the church year. Since the 1970s, a number of churches have observed this Sunday as the festival of Christ the King. It is appropriate for Christians to think of our Savior as our King on any day. Days such as Christmas, Epiphany, Palm Sunday, and Ascension include themes of Christ's kingship. And the Gospels are full of Jesus' teachings about the kingdom of heaven.
In today's Gospel from Matthew 25: 31-46, Jesus looks to His return to sit upon the throne and judge humanity as the righteous king. Yes, God in Christ is gracious and merciful, but before we can truly appreciate divine mercy, we must acknowledge His majestic power and holiness. In other words, we need to hear about divine commands and expectations before we can apply His forgiving promises. Thinking of Christ as our King should first point us to His righteousness and then lead us to the comfort of His mercy.
Human beings always need this two-fold message. Even the most faithful Christians need to be reminded again and again. Each day, month, or year brings new applications. This year has been a rather dramatic case. We have been buffeted by natural disasters, international conflicts, and political and social turmoil. Chaos and crisis have been abundant. Humanity has been reminded of its weaknesses, its failures, and its sins. All have been tested, and many have fallen into depression and despair.
So we all need to be reminded that Jesus Christ is King. He is both righteous and merciful. He holds us accountable, but He also pours out His grace. Despite the changes and challenges of this world, He is still our ruler, and one day, His rule will become clear to all creation.
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