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Vocation Meditation -
Solemnity of Christ the King
"If you are King of the Jews, save yourself."
Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us."
The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal."
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Every king demands loyalty from his subjects.
Christ the King of the Universe is not different. He also expects loyalty from us, His people. Moreover, He expects this loyalty in times of prosperity AND in times of trial.
Although Christ was feted and followed throughout his ministerial life, at the crucifixion, he was abandoned.
The rulers sneer at Jesus and the soldiers jeer at him, even one of the criminals hanging on the cross beside Him reviles Him.
Yet, there is one loyal subject. The "good thief" remains true to his vocation and confesses that Christ is Lord of all.
Vocation Challenge:
"Have you no fear of God?"
My King is Christ. Do you I remain loyal to Him each day, defending Him when He is reviled? Do I look for ways to serve Him, even in times of trial?
Dear God,
I know that You are the ruler of the universe and of my heart. May I always be ready to bend my knee and my will to Your divine commands. Help me to remain true to my vocation to confess and defend You in all circumstances. Remember me when You come into Your Kingdom.
Amen
For the full Gospel reading for this Sunday, visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops site.