Fr. Rick’s Three-Minute Homily for the Christ the King Year B

John 18:33-37, November 24, 2024

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112424.cfm

Who do I follow? Pilate or Jesus?

In today’s gospel, we encounter Pontius Pilate and Jesus.
Both are rulers in two very different styles of kingdoms – two very different styles of ruling.
Pilate was an authority in charge, calling all the shots.
When he said something, people did it or bad things would happen to them.

Jesus did not have any monetary power or influence, nor was he a physical threat to Pilate.
If you look at a crucifix, this does not fit the secular definition of power and kingship very well.
As a way to mock our Lord, Pilate put the inscription over the cross on which Jesus hung on Good Friday, “Jesus of Nazareth. King of the Jews.”

So let’s not think of Jesus sitting on some throne in heaven dictating what we do minute by minute.
This is not how he lived.
He is not that kind of a King.
He does not use his power as strength to rule over others.
He does not want to control people.

Jesus is a King indeed, but not the kind that normally comes to mind, one who rules over people with authority and power.
His kingdom is not of this world, as he told Pilate.
In other words it’s not going to be a kingdom for the privileged or anyone who thinks they are better than others.

It will not be a kingdom that excludes anyone because of race, color, or creed, or political affiliation.
It really does not matter if you live on this side of the tracks or the other side.
In his kingdom there is nothing that separates or divides or causes alienation of any kind.

In his concept of King – the gospel concept – power is care and protection of others.
Authority is service.
And the humble and meek of this world are truly the great ones.

You and I are to let Jesus define the way we look at life.
“I have come not to be served but to serve, and give up my life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus is a king with a difference.

Charles Colson, founder of the Christian Prison Fellowship, says it like this: “All the kings and queens I have known in history sent their people out to die for them. I only know one King Who decided to die for his people.” (frtonyshomilies.com/).

He laid down his life for us and told us we are to do the same for each other.
You and I need to kneel down before a crucifix and ask Jesus
                How can I lay down my life for my spouse and children?
                How can I lay down my life for my employees, my employer and fellow workers?

Political leaders can have this servant authority over others always looking for the common good and not what will keep them in office.
I need to give Jesus authority over my will and choices so I have the will to put God and others first.

Responsible adults take on positions of authority and power as they fulfill their roles in life.
But the question is, do we model ourselves after Jesus who defines these roles and positions differently than does our society?

Do we consistently see authority as service?
Do we see power as loving care for others including all of creation?
Do we see those under us as sacred human people, worthy of our very best care and concern?

It’s all about how we relate to people, as Pilate or as Jesus.

Peace be with you, friends.

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC

www.bscchurch.com