THE SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, THE KING OF THE UNIVERSE: JESUS, REMEMBER ME IN YOUR KINGDOM

Each year on this feast of Christ the King, I recall the story of a six-year-old boy who once sat determined to draw a picture of God. His mother said, “But no one really knows what God looks like.” The boy replied, “Once I finish this drawing, they will know.”

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our lives were that kind of picture—if people could look at us and finally see what it means to proclaim Jesus as King? The feast of Christ the King is more than an annual event. It is the celebration of Christ's reign in every aspect of our lives. Hence, we echo the words of the “good thief” crucified with the Lord, “Jesus, remember me in your kingdom.”

The World Looks for a King in All the Wrong Places

Unfortunately, today’s society does not look for kings on crosses. Our world enthrones beauty, status, social media, power, convenience, and self-expression, but very few enthrone humility, sacrifice, or truth.

Yet in the Gospel, it took one voice—one condemned man hanging beside Jesus to proclaim the true king when he said: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” One statement of faith silenced the mockery around the cross. One act of courage revealed Jesus’ hidden majesty. And Jesus responded:

“Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” That is the true Kingdom, the Kingdom that reigns forever.

The Paradox of Kingship: Power in Humility

The Gospel presents contrasts in portraying the passion narrative: mockery vs. faith, power vs. surrender, self-preservation vs. self-gift, honor vs. shame, popularity vs. justice, easy way vs. sacrifice. Jesus shows that true kingship epitomizes humility, mercy, and sacrificial love.

As Scripture says, although Jesus had all divine power yet, “Jesus did not count equality with God, something for us to grasp” (Phil. 2:6). In Jesus, we see that humility is power restrained, not weakness.

A Word About the Suffering Church in Nigeria

Permit me to share a painful reality: the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria. In recent days, bandits and extremist groups have attacked Christian communities. Priests are abducted or killed. Children are kidnapped. Villages are destroyed. And families are massacred for bearing the name of Christ. It is as if the Body of Christ is being constantly crucified again. Should Christians respond with violence in the face of the failure of the government to protect them?

This is where today’s feast speaks loudly: Christ’s victory is not first over physical enemies but over spiritual darkness, hatred, and injustice. The Psalmist assures us: “Though the wicked sprout like grass and evildoers flourish, they are doomed to destruction forever; but you, O Lord, are on high forever” (Ps. 92:7–8).

In the face of persecution, the Church in Nigeria and all persecuted Christians continue to pray: “Jesus, remember us in your kingdom.”

Witness of Hope: Blessed Miguel Pro

We remember Blessed Miguel Pro, who ministered faithfully during violent persecution in Mexico. At his execution, he stretched out his arms like Christ and cried: “¡Viva Cristo Rey!”— “Long Live Christ the King!” I believe Christ spoke to him the same words spoken to the good thief: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.”

Blessed Miguel Pro’s life reminds us that Christ reigns most powerfully from the cross. And those who cling to Him in suffering share in His victory.

A Prayer for Today

As we celebrate Christ the King, the Gospel asks each of us: Who sits on the throne of your heart? May we echo the thief’s humble prayer and join the persecuted Church around the world to reinforce the reign of Christ: “Jesus, remember me in your kingdom.”

Viva Cristo Rey! Long live Christ the King!

Readings: 1st – 2 Sam. 5:1–3; 2nd – Col. 1:12–20; Gospel – Luke 23:35–43

Reflection Questions:

1. What “kingdoms” compete for your loyalty—status, comfort, ego, or Christ?

2. Where do you hear Jesus inviting you to humility and surrender?

3. How does the suffering of Christians today call you to deeper faith and solidarity?

4. In moments of struggle, can you make the prayer of the good thief your own: “Jesus, remember me”?