Loading...For a concise description of the observance of Christ the King and an indictment against it AND a clear description of the Feast of All Saints all in one please see and read the book entitled "For All the Saints":
Remembering the Christian Departed by NT Wright
https://www.logos.com/product/15809/for-all-the-saints-remembering-the-christian-departed
While the origin and theological foundation for the observance of Christ the King Sunday is under some debate, I am taking the day for what I can take it for: God governs and holds authority in the nations of the world.
“Then why are the nations of the world so messed up?” is what you are supposed to ask next.
Then I reply, “Because God is free.”
Throughout the history of God’s people from the time God governs Eden to the reign of Joseph in Egypt, to the leadership of Moses, the judges, the kings and prophets, then Ezra, Nehemiah, and finally Herod and the ‘saints’ in the churches listed in Revelation polity has changed the trajectory of the community. One common thread is that wherever there has been a ruler of any kind, there are rules — don’t eat this one fruit, don’t commit adultery, etc) — there is someone compelled to transgress those rules and, one way or another, the ruler is accountable for the actions of the people.
This thread is woven into the crown of thorns on the king whose throne is a cross on the hill of Calvary.
When Jesus, rightful heir and ruler of creation, surrenders his kingdom, making himself accountable for the rule-breaking of the entire world, his heavenly Father forgives the world and makes every citizen eligible to come to the crystal sea where the leaves the trees grow for the healing of the nations.
Salvation is designed for whole tribes as well as individuals. God is free to give guidance to earthly governors, or not. That is why the Episcopal church prays for all in authority, often by name. Every time I open my day with devotion,I don’t have any way to predict what the Kingdom of Elizabeth might encounter. I DO know that the Kingdom of God has plans and purposes for me. Because I am included in God’s plans and purposes I never have to wonder who is the Ultimate Ruler of All Creation. Regardless of my opinion about a King whose rule of Love requires loss I trust that God has my best interest at heart.
