ON this last Sunday of Ordinary Time, the Solemnity of Christ the King, I’d like to use Archbishop Socrates Villegas’ insights on the kingship of Christ.
A deck of cards carries several images of a king: the king of clubs, king of spades, king of diamonds, and king of hearts.
Jesus is not the king of clubs because his kingdom is not of violence, terror, hostility, and misuse of power. It’s a kingdom of peace and justice.
Jesus is not the king of spades because he came not to throw dirt on us but to dignify us as children of God. He came not to bury us in perpetual damnation but to bring us to eternal life with God in heaven!
Jesus is not the king of diamonds because his kingdom is not a preoccupation with wealth, prestige, and one’s image. It’s about caring for the poor and the destitute. It’s about sharing one’s treasure, time, and talents with others.
If Jesus is not the king of clubs, spades, and diamonds, he is the then the king of hearts! He came to show us his Father’s love and to die for our salvation. He came to make us his disciples to preach and bring love, mercy, and forgiveness to the world.
In today’s society, when corruption and greed are rampant, and when homelessness and poverty have become a seemingly complex and unresolvable issue, we need to advocate for the values of Christ’s kingdom. We need to call for honest and effective leadership in government and politics to provide decent lives for all people. And as a church, we have to do our part in helping alleviate poverty and promoting the dignity of every human being.
These Thanksgiving Day, Advent, Christmas are times for us to reflect on the Kingship of Christ. They are times when we would feel the poverty, loneliness, and hopelessness of others. In our own ways, let our hearts be moved to help them. Let the love, compassion, and generosity of Christ reign in our hearts as we celebrate these holidays!
Blessings to all!
* * *
Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.
