The readings for this Sunday, November 23, focus on the kingship of Christ. This Sunday is the Feast of Christ the King, the last Sunday in the Church’s liturgical year. Let’s take a look.
Gospel Text – Luke 23:35-43
“The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine, they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Above him, there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.”
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.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
First Reading – David’s Kingship- 2 Samuel 5:1-3
In the first reading, the tribes of Israel come to David at Hebron and anoint him king over all Israel. This marks the uniting of God’s people under one shepherd-king. God anoints David not only as a political leader but also as His chosen one, foreshadowing the Messiah.
Second Reading – Christ’s Kingship – Colossians 1:12-20
Christ is revealed as the universal King — the one through whom all things were created and reconciled. His kingship is not limited to Israel or Jerusalem but extends over all creation. This passage explicitly identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of David’s kingship, the one who unites heaven and earth.
Gospel Reading – Kingship in Suffering – Luke 23:35-43
Here, Jesus’ kingship is paradoxically revealed in suffering. His throne is the cross, and His authority is shown in mercy: “Today you will be with me in paradise.” The crucifixion is not a defeat but the enthronement of Christ as King, offering salvation to those who trust Him.
Common Thread
The common thread is the kingship of Christ as the fulfillment of God’s plan for unity, worship, and salvation. From David’s anointing → to Jerusalem’s worship → to Christ’s universal reign → to His crucified mercy, the readings trace the arc of God’s kingdom. Jesus reigns not by worldly power but by sacrificial love, drawing all creation into His peace.
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Peace
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