Holy Infant Catholic Church
Father Michaels Weekly Thoughts
WEEKLY THOUGHTS CHRIST THE KING SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23rd 2025
Dear friends, welcome to the celebration of the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King of the Universe and the last Sunday in the Liturgical Year Cycle C.
The first Reading 2 Samuel 5: 1-3 is about the anointing of David as King of Isarel and Judah. Jesus traces his origin from the line of this great King and would hear “Son of David” as one of his titles.
The Second Reading Colossians 1: 12-20 Paul speaks of our share and participation in the life, death and in his glorious resurrection, which brings us Redemption and Salvation.
In the Gospel Luke 23: 35-43 gives us Jesus the Christ and King crucified on the cross-a symbol of harsh punishment amid two criminals. This event reminds us or takes us back to Good Friday.
We hear of the rulers sneering at Jesus; “save yourself from the cross.” The soldiers who crucified Jesus said the same rhetoric; “save yourself.” One of the criminals mocked Jesus; “save yourself and us”. The other criminal blamed his fellow criminal for disrespect of Jesus the innocent man. He begged Jesus in a form of prayer; “Jesus remember me when you come to your Kingdom.” Jesus responded, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” This is Jesus’ declaration of salvation to the repentant criminal.
At the beginning of the liturgical year, we anticipated and celebrated the coming of the Savior, Messiah and Son of God whose mission was to bring salvation. At his public ministry; Jesus announced the reign of God- kingdom of peace, love, mercy, justice and forgiveness of sins. His mission and reign even at the last minute, was extended to the outcast and public sinners – the criminal. Let us endeavor to build the kingdom of Love and Reconciliation as we journey to eternity.
Let us take the example of Jesus who at the cross forgave his killers; “Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Let us endeavor to focus on Jesus Christ the King of love, reconciliation and the source of salvation.
Have a great Thanksgiving and blessings.