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There has been a lot of talk about kings lately. Many say they want “No King”, understandably since the kings of this world use deception, division and force to maintain control. I wouldn’t want that kind of king either. But in accepting Christ as King, we submit not to a ruler in a golden mansion, but to a King reigning from a cross; a throne won not by force, lies or greed, but through truth, compassion, mercy and self-sacrifice.
What king do we follow? The King we enthroned in a manger surrounded by smelling animals and lowly shepherds. This King reigns not in palaces but in our hearts. This King is honest about the cost of discipleship. St. Paul calls the cross a stumbling block to all except those willing to be Fools for Christ. Jesus’ kingdom unfolds in the ordinary encounters of daily life—in the messiest places - workplaces not golden palaces, homes not ornate churches. We demonstrate our heavenly citizenship where people love, serve, struggle, forgive, and begin again.
Jesus invites us to carry the quiet burdens of love and to say “yes” to the cross through a thousand small acts of compassion each and every day. This is how Christ’s kingship quietly takes root in our hearts. His kingdom is wherever mercy is practiced and hope is restored? Will we use our gifts in the service of this King? Will we sacrifice ourselves in service of those who have been cast aside? If we do, we will be liberated from the cruelty of this world. If we say “‘yes” we too will hear the words of Jesus who justified the thief from the cross saying “This day, you will be with me in paradise”. Do we dare to say “yes” to this King?