Christ the King Sunday 2025
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. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. The people stood by, watching Jesus on the cross; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." Luke 23:33-43
Christ the King Sunday is the last Sunday in the long season of Pentecost, signaling the beginning of Advent and the new church year. The lectionary readings of these last Sundays of Pentecost have portent and drama, reminding us of the coming time of preparation and self-examination. The world around us screams at us these days, "buy, buy, buy!" Yet Jesus whispers to us "come unto me all who labor and are heavy laden." We are called to a time of remembering both the birth and passion of our Lord, knowing we live in in-between times, caught between the pain of living and the promise of paradise, the sentimentality and messy violence of this reality and the tender arms of our loving Savior. May we quiet the world's noise for a season, so we might hear, see and know again that divine love.
Creator God, the source of all compassion
you sent your only child to suffer for us all
so we might know love and share love here.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to know you now and share your love here.
We know our faults all too well and worry
that there is no place for us in your reign
yet you told criminals you loved them too.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to know you now and share your love here.
We turn and face the season of your birth
forgetting how much you have done for us.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to know you now and share your love here.
The world focuses on shopping and gifts
you call us to focus on compassion and service.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to know you now and share your love here.
We fail every day and yet you lift us all up
holding us in your arms of love for eternity.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to know you now and share your love here.
Help us to love and serve daily in your name
trusting you have a place for us now and forever.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to know you now and share your love here. Amen.
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