But as it is, my kingdom is not here.”
So Pilate said to him, “Then you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say 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, 36B-37 NABRE)
Jesus' time had finally arrived and he would soon fulfill his mission here on earth. In today's passage he stands before Pilate, accused by his own people of claiming to be a king. Jesus admits as much (even if he uses vague terms). He knows his accusers seek his death, yet he doesn't seem at all interested in persuading Pilate to have mercy on him.
Notice instead his clear focus on his mission. He knows why he was born. He is acutely aware of the reason he came into the world. Jesus came to testify to the truth. And he challenges all who hear him to listen to what he has to say.
And so, the King of kings was led away to be crucified. At the time, only he knew that this was how he would complete his mission, that this was how he would atone for all the wrongs of all mankind in a single act. And by taking our sins on his shoulders, he suffered death once for all so that each one of us would have the opportunity of eternal life.
No doubt, we have mysteries as part of our faith. I am grateful for this mysterious gift of our King's holy cross, by which he has redeemed the world.
Today, on this Solemnity Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, I will trust in him.
Saint Cecilia, patron of musicians, pray for us.
 |
| Saint Cecilia, Artist: Guido Reni |
No comments:
Post a Comment