Scripture – Luke 23:33-43 NRSVUE
33 When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. [[34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”]] And they cast lots to divide his clothing. 35 And the people stood by watching, but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!” 36 The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine 37 and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!”38 There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.”
39 One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other rebuked him, saying “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.” “Jesus, remember me when you come in 42 Then he said, your kingdom.” 43 He replied, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
From Rev Heather Leffler
On this Reign of Christ Sunday, our gospel reading reminds us that Jesus did not rule as the world expected a king to rule. Instead he fed the hungry, healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, shared wisdom and stories to teach, and called power to account. His authority was not rooted in domination, but in compassion, truth, justice and love. His life on earth taught us how to be a part of his kingdom.
Then he accepted death on a cross, giving his life so we would know the depth of his love for all people, a love that nothing – not even death – could overcome.
Even those who convicted and crucified him and the criminals hanging beside him – who by human standards deserved their fate – were not beyond his forgiveness and love. In the midst of suffering, Jesus chose mercy. His last words were to assure the one who reached out in hope and humility that he would be welcomed into life beyond death with Jesus.
To a world that values power and wealth, calling Jesus a king would be confusing. Yet his reign is not one of fear, control, or violence, but of grace, belonging, and transformation. Through the ages his love has changed people’s hearts. From the disciples to us today, Jesus has shown us that loving our neighbours and even our enemies is the best hope for humanity and the world. This is what it means to live under the Reign of Christ.
Contemplation and Conversation
How has knowing Jesus changed your view of the world?
Prayer
Risen One, we give thanks for your life, death and resurrection.
You reign not from a throne of power, but from a cross of love.
You meet us in our brokenness and offer hope, forgiveness, and new life.
Touched by your story, may we be your hands and feet in the world,
choosing compassion over judgment, mercy over fear, and love over hate,
loving others as you love us. Amen..
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