Homily for the Solemnity of Christ the King

This feast celebrates the Kingdom of Christ, whose Kingdom – or Dominion – is a well-ordered body or society organised under one sole sovereign Lord. The Kingship of Christ in fact presents us with the ideal model of a true Kingdom in which our earthly kingdoms or societies find their true meaning and goal. Three things can be stated. First, the Church is “the kingdom of Christ now present in mystery” (Vatican II, Lumen Gentium, 3). In heaven God’s kingdom is perfectly ordered whereas in the earthly church we see true Divine Order – for example a diocese is governed by its bishop who represents Christ and to whom we owe obedience – but we also realise that on earth there is imperfection and weakness and the Church does not yet fully manifest God’s kingdom. Secondly, the Kingship of Christ should be manifested in civil society. It is not just an idea for the Church. This has been understood differently in different historical periods, but the principle is clear that all human societies are called to obedience to the one Kingship of Christ. Following on from these, thirdly, the ultimate culmination of Christ’s kingdom where he will “make all created things subject to his rule” (Preface of the Mass) will only be at the end of time in the resurrection of the just and the life of the world to come. 

Today’s readings capitulate and expand these points. The first reading, the proclamation and anointing of David as King of Israel, manifests a true desire for Kingship under God. So often people – including ourselves even – would like to cast off the Divine kingship on the grounds that it limits human freedom. How very wrong this is. Our deepest desire corresponds to obedience and love to Christ as King, under whom alone we can be truly free and blessed. The second reading is a very rich scriptural passage. “The inheritance of the saints” is the culmination of God’s kingdom; the “dominion of darkness” – that other “kingdom” obedient to the Prince of Darkness to which we can all at times be tempted; the “forgiveness of sins”, the assurance us that our offences against God’s majesty can be washed clean by the blood of the lamb. Christ’s true kingship is both human and divine, for he is God’s Son who in his incarnate nature died and rose again from the dead – this sublime Kingship and the greatness of his redemption shines out in St Paul’s words. The Gospel, finally, presents us with the ultimate mystery that Christ’s Kingship is manifested uniquely on the Cross. This is very far from the glory and status so highly regarded in earthly kingdoms. The Cross assures us that Christ’s Kingdom is a Kingdom of Love, a King who will stop at nothing for the redemption and salvation of his people. Amen.