Homily for Christ the King 2010
We might wonder what crime the criminals on the cross had committed. One said "we have been condemned justly, we are getting what we deserve for our deeds." What did they do that deserved such an horrendous death? They are often referred to as the good and bad thieves. But simple theft would not be a crime resulting in crucifixion. The Romans must have seen then as traitors to Roman rule or murderers. The account of events on Calvary does stand to contrast to Jesus' deeds that did not deserve death by any normal standard and the deeds of the criminals.This feast of Christ the King makes us ask, What kind of King was Jesus? He was born in a stable. He did not choose to have an army. Did not impose taxes. Did not live in a palace. He had nowhere to lay his head. He lived amongst the lowliest of people. He did not physically retaliate when attacked. That is a strange kind of King. He even chose to reply with the non committal words to Pilates' question asking if is he king of the Jews: "You say so." He does not deny or affirm the title lest he give the wrong idea about the nature of his kingdom.
He does share something with King David. David came from amongst the people, was a natural leader who was capable of great compassion. He had a strong faith in the power of God to save. The king was regarded as God's representative and endorsed by God. We read of David's appointment as king in the first reading. Even when Saul was the king of Israel it was David who saved the people from their enemies and united the tribes around him. He was soon known as a shepherd king. They choose David to be their king after Saul was killed. So too, Jesus was a popular figure from Nazareth who people would want as a king for similar reasons. But Jesus would have none of it. He was not that kind of king either. Even the great David's kingship could not fully express Jesus mission. Yet, Jesus was someone endorsed by God and represented God to the people.
The story of Jesus passion and death in the Gospel is full of irony. The contrast between the title "King of the Jews" that Pilate gave him and his life indicates the revolutionary stand he takes. He is no ordinary king. He is no ordinary messiah. He is no ordinary prophet. He is no ordinary rabbi.
His rule is by love. He is faithful to the love of the Father even to death. The salvation he offers is through dying to oneself, not in killing one's enemies. His loyalty is to God alone. The allegiance we owe to him is because he can offer salvation where no other king or ruler or power can: "Today you will be with me in paradise!" Earlier Jesus had said, speaking about love of enemies, "Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:35-36). We are a bit suspicious of death bed conversions. We so easily rationalize our wrong behaviour. Jesus does not seem to have any doubt about this criminal in this case at least. He can see what is happening in a person's heart.. Jesus willingness to seek out our best selves is a reason for confidence.
What we cannot heal in life. What we are unable to forgive. What hopes we cannot fulfil in this life. He does. That is why Jesus is King.
Fr Graham