Nov. 20, 2011 — Solemnity of our Lord Jesus, Christ the King
Ez. 34:11-12,15-17; Ps. 23:1-2, 2-3, 5-6; 1 Cor. 15:20-26, 28; Mt. 25:31-46
Today we celebrate the feast of Christ the King. And while Christ is King of the World, he is also a kind and loving shepherd who cares for His flock.
The first reading today focuses on the Lord’s caring nature. “I will rescue them from every place where they were scattered when it was cloudy and dark. I myself will give them rest.” The Responsorial Psalm reiterates those sentiments, praising the Lord for His incredible generosity. He gives us all we need and more, again, like a shepherd who cares for His sheep.
Meanwhile, in all three of the readings, there is an eschatological element. Each one, in varying degrees, speaks to us of the second coming and the final judgment that will take place when the Lord does return in glory.
The Lord is our shepherd. It is, therefore, our responsibility as His disciples to use what He has given us wisely. We all have time, talents and treasure, and we are called to use those gifts to the best of our ability, not by squandering them, but by taking ownership of them and making the Master proud.
On judgment day, the faithful steward of God’s gifts will be with those on the right, and with the words, “Come, you are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world,” we will be ushered into the heavenly kingdom.
