Anticipating Worship: Last Sunday of the Church Year, November 24, 2024—Live a Life Faithful to Your King
Followers of Christ are subjects of the King. It may seem obvious to assert that Jesus is no ordinary king, but it is important for us to remember exactly how he rules. As it was in his day, still today the world is eager to deny that he is any sort of king. Some acclaim him as a great prophet, but not the God who reigns. Others acknowledge him to be an enlightened teacher or a useful role model while refusing to offer him total allegiance in life and faith. Even Christians can struggle with the kind of King that he truly is. We often want a king who would be more politically powerful or a paragon of worldly success. But that isn't the kind of King we see today!
As the church year comes to a close, Jesus confirms that his kingship is both real and at the same time distinct from any other kind of rule. Jesus stands before Pontius Pilate and demonstrates authority through his own suffering. He stands against the rulers of this world and reminds us of his universal reign. King Jesus, keep us faithful to you alone!