Daniel 7:13-14 Revelation 1:5-8 John 18:33b-37
There is both interesting historical and interesting theological background surrounding this Feast Day. Diana Butler Bass, a noted theologian (with a great history background), in her weekly blog, The Cottage, writes that this feast was “… first proclaimed by Pope Pius XI in 1925 to reassert the primacy of Jesus’ lordship over the rise of nationalism and authoritarianism in European politics.” Some would argue that our present moment would be a great time to look at this feast, with today’s lectionary readings, under a similar light.
I’ve been thinking a lot about the readings over the past few days. And as the Holy Spirit would have it, several circumstances have come together to bring to focus for me a significant insight. It seems that, during his life on earth, almost no one other than Jesus had any idea of the type of “kingship” he represented. Certainly, he talked about it - he referenced his heavenly Father - he tried to make even his disciples understand that he was not interested in worldly power or fame. But they didn’t really comprehend the message.
Just last night I saw a powerful, compelling performance of the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. In the director’s notes she revealed that the opera was written as a political commentary. From the perspective of spirituality, therein lies the problem. Even today, many Christians want to view the life and ministry of Jesus through the lens of the Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures, rather than the lens of the New Testament/Christian Scriptures. We must remember: Jesus, himself, was adamant that he came to establish a new way of thinking and acting…a way not connected to historical or political circumstances. No longer was it justifiable to take an eye for an eye, the new way was all about reconciliation and love!
When Jesus says his “Kingdom” is not of this world, he is actually proclaiming a whole new way of understanding the meaning of life - not in the mode of earthly power, fame, wealth, conquest, etc., but in the spiritual realm of love, forgiveness, community and relationships.
It was only after the resurrection, when he was walking with two disciples to Emmaus and visiting disciples in the upper room, that they began to realize the tremendous spiritual implications of his kingship. In fact, I am not sure they fully understood even then.
Moreover, after 2000 years, I am convinced that many of us still don’t fully comprehend the message of Jesus Christ. We certainly don’t seem to be living like we understand what it means to make love the most important virtue - a virtue that then motivates our thoughts and our actions.
After all of this input and reflection/prayer, I find myself challenged in new, exciting, and sometimes difficult ways. How about you?
by: Bill Miller
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