Christ the King

By Reverend Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain

There is an air of anticipation in my Godly Play classes as we move closer to the ‘purple time’ that represents the Season of Advent. As the ‘green and growing time’ comes to a close, so too does the Church’s year. This Sunday marks the last Sunday of the liturgical year and is known as the Feast of Christ the King. Instituted in the aftermath of World War One, this Feast Day offered hope in response to political and social turmoil in Europe, in particular for those grappling with an emerging new world order.

Another way of thinking about this feast day is the Reign of Christ. This use of ‘kingdom’ language emphasises the authority of Christ as the king over all creation. A distinction is drawn between the power of those who lead on earth, who can be corrupt and unjust, and the power of Jesus Christ, which reflects a reign of mercy and justice.

Following Jesus’ example reveals to us that true power lies in self-giving love.

Jesus’ self-giving love is evident in Luke 23: 33–43, where Jesus is crucified alongside criminals. Where one mocks Jesus with disbelief and scorn, the other sees Jesus for who he is and, with faith and confidence, asks: 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom'. Even though he is completely vulnerable, rejected and in physical pain, Jesus’ words and actions show us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy: 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.'

In this moment of humiliation, when Jesus could save himself, he made connections that benefited others. His actions characterise the ultimate act of love and forgiveness. Instead of using his power for himself, he uses it to show mercy to others, even to those who are mocking him and tasked with hurting him. This reveals to us just how important grace is to the reign of Christ. This grace is what those who follow Jesus hold on to in their own lives and relationships.

Participation in the Reign of Christ means freedom to stand with those on the fringes, those suffering injustice and those left behind by people in power.

As we draw close to the end of the school year, I wonder what else God’s kingdom might bring to an end to make room for something new.