Our Lord Jesus Christ, King Of The Universe
From the cross He reigns eternal, revealing that true kingship is found not in power, but in mercy and love.
Not long ago, I was called to a hospital to anoint a woman in her early 80s. She was dying, and visibly in pain. But what struck me most wasn't her suffering - it was the atmosphere in the room. She had eight children and 30 foster kids, and many of them were gathered around her. You'd expect sorrow, fear, maybe even despair. But the room was filled with something else entirely - a quiet strength, a kind of sweetness. It was as if she was suffering not just with them, but for them. And they, in love, were suffering for her. The pain was real. But so was the peace. I didn't want to run. I felt as if I was in a little paradise, beeping machines and all. I think of that moment when I hear today's Gospel. Jesus, hanging on the cross, doesn't look like a king. But one of the crucified, dying men beside him sees through the suffering and says, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom" (Luke 23:42). That word - remember - literally means to make someone a member again. He's asking to be joined to Christ, to become part of his Body. And Jesus says, "Today you will be with me in paradise."
He doesn't say, "I'll take your suffering away." He says, "You will be with me."
That's the strange power of Christ the King. He doesn't rule by avoiding suffering. He reigns by entering into it, and transforming it with love. What are you suffering right now in your life? Likely you want it to stop. But if we are willing to suffer with him - paradise begins even today.
- Father John Muir
LPi
