Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?” Pilate replied, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?” Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” Pilate asked him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” John 18:33-37
We live in a democratic country which threw off the control of kings and monarchs many generations ago. We declared that all are created equal, yet we have failed to live that way. When we talk about Christ the King, we are not talking about a monarch like the ones we rejected. Jesus was born to this role, but it has always been a role of loving service. Our king Jesus does not discriminate, intimidate, castigate or abuse anyone or any part of creation. That is what we human do and loving and serving is what we fail to do. Yet no matter our failures, our Savior forgives and renews us, lifting us up and sending us out to serve.
Wondrous Creator, who sent your only son
to live with us and to teach love to everyone
who offered his life for all in every generation
and who seeks us out in our deep darkness.
Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.
As the season turn, and the world grows cold
we hide in our comfortable places and home
we surround ourselves with people like us
forgetting his call to love and serve all people.
Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.
You teach us to seek your face in every age
and promise to be with us in our humble places
so help us see your face in every stranger
and give you homage as we serve others.
Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.
Lord, you suffered so we might live joyfully
help us to share your love and joy here and now.
Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.
Make us ready to shelter those who suffer
and comfort the weary and those who mourn.
Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love.
For you are Christ the King, the lord of love
and you shower us with abundance and mercy.
Lord Jesus, come rule in our hearts with your love. Amen.
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