November 22 - Christ the King

Christ the King! - but how does this relate to our lives today? We considered today's reading, shown above in probably the earliest representation of the scene, from a fifth century mosaic in Ravenna, Italy. What sort of king does Christ appear to be, captive and on trial for his life? Pontius Pilate seems a much more kinglike figure seated on throne representing h the power of the Roman Empire. But is Jesus much more in control of the situation? Pilate is washing his hands unable to accept responsibility, Jesus is choosing to die.

'My kingdom is not of this world...' so what sort of kingdom is it? We thought of mustard seed, yeast and a pearl, all descriptions of the kingdom of God in Jesus' teaching. They suggest the kingdom happens in small, hidden ways but making a big difference to our lives and also is precious.


Savita is an Indian rubbish collector supported by one of the small projects St Peter's Caring and Sharing group helps. She now employs other women too – an example of the Kingdom at work? Especially as Jesus always identified himself with the poor and marginalised and was crucified outside the city walls, where rubbish was thrown.

We were reminded that Jesus' love can and should transform our lives and those around us. As we often pray Thy Kingdom come and as we prepare to celebrate the birth of the newborn King, so we are challenged to follow better Jesus our king.

Judith Platt