The Kingship of Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

34th Week : Sunday

GOSPEL Matthew 25:31-46

First Reading - Ez 34: 11-12, 15-17

Second Reading - 1 Cor 15: 20-26

*Feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe*

*1) Jesus is the King of the Universe*

This feast specifically recognises Jesus as the King the entire universe

This feast helps us to accept the Lordship of Jesus, and to know His mighty power over everything that exist in the world. 

*2) Where is Jesus' Kingdom*

Jesus says, *My Kingdom is not of this world* John 18:36

If so where is the Kingdom of Jesus?

Without having the kingdom in this world, what type of His kingship and where does His kingship comes into effect? 

Is it possible to become a king with out the material Kingdom? 

So finally where is the Jesus' Kingdom? What type of King He is? 

*3) The Shepherd model of Kingship*

The first reading of the day from Ezekiel speaks about the Shepherd model of Kingship

As a shepherd, God has many things to do

He goes in search of the lost sheep 

He keeps awake all the time to protect the sheep 

He is watchful about His sheep and does not allow the sheep to scatter

He is with the sheep all the time to give them the food and drink 

He is at the service of the sheep all the time. 

Unlike the kings of this world who demand everything from their subjects for His wellbeing and selfish interests, the shepherd model of kingship is totally for the wellbeing of the sheep and not for the selfish interests of the shepherd 

*4) Where is the Kingdom of Jesus*

The Gospel of the day gives answer to this question

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, 

I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,

I was a stranger and you invited me in,

I needed clothes and you clothed me,

I was sick and you looked after me,

I was in prison and you came to visit me.

The kingdom of Jesus consists in doing these things and not found in power, pomp, glory and materia possession.

*5) Who will enter His Kingdom*

*Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world*

Those in the Right side are those who followed the standards of Jesus Kingdom 

The standards are mentioned above. 

Only following the above standard one can desire to get an entry into His kingdom. Other wise no entry will be possible

*Do I desire to enter into Jesus' kingdom by following the above standard?*

Choice is yours 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*