Minute for Mission: Christ the King/Reign of Christ

November 20, 2016

Based on lectionary text Luke 23:33-43

“When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left.” Luke 23:33

Even in today’s era of constitutional monarchies, royalty look to project power.  They seek to rise above political skirmishes and to stay above the fray.  Their thrones and crowns remind us commoners that we do not live in their rarified world. Kings and queens strive to project a non-anxious, detached calm from whatever troubles might be assailing their subjects.

But not Christ the King.

Christ the King, whose reign we celebrate today, projects a completely different kind of power—a power that comes all the way down into the muck and mire of human life.  Jesus Christ goes to the cross, entering completely into the troubles of his subjects.  Jesus Christ reigns not as one avoiding human troubles, but as one who gave up all of the amazements of heaven in order to bring humanity abundant and eternal life.

Chip Hardwick, Director of Theology, Formation & Evangelism, Presbyterian Mission Agency

Today’s Focus:  Christ the King/Reign of Christ

Let us join in prayer for:

PC(USA) Staff

Mike Kirk, PMA
Stacie Kizer, PPC

Let us pray

Most powerful creator and gracious God, be our guide. Inspire us to build unity and trust among your people. Teach us to live as you would have us live. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, November 20, 2016, Christ the King (Reign of Christ) Sunday (Year C)

• First Reading Jeremiah 23:1-6
• Gospel Luke 1:68-79
• Second Reading Colossians 1:11-20
• Gospel Luke 23:33-43