Every year, for the last Sunday in Ordinary Time we celebrate the feast of Christ the King of the Universe. While this is a fitting end to the year, reminding us of Christ’s eminent return and the events that bring God’s plan for creation to a fitting end, for us living in a presidential form of democracy, the idea of a king can be odd and even difficult to understand or fully grasp. We may think of him as above all things and the one who sits on the throne over the Kingdom of Heaven, but what sets him apart from other rulers? What does it mean that he is our King?
Vassal: As uncomfortable as it may be, we are vassals and not lords or nobles. A lord or noble may seek his own following, but a vassal remains humble and knows that even those who may be given to him, belong to the king, as St. Paul warned against saying “I belong to Paul” or “I belong to Apollos . . .” for we all belong to Christ Jesus.
A vassal also does the work of the King, not his own work. If the King needs someone to farm the field, he fields, if he needs a caretaker of the house, a blacksmith, a military commander, or whatever the call may be, the vassal happily follows and fulfills his vocation.
Defense: We defend our King. Whether it is in vocal debate, the protection of his territory, or taking up the spiritual swords of battle, it is our place to defend the King against his enemies, against slander and against those who would usurp his place on the throne.
Fealty: With fealty, one is loyal to the King without turning to others and he fears undermining him.
Reverence: When the King enters the room, the guests seated at table all stand, or lining the streets they kneel. We exhibit this throughout the Mass. But reverence is also demonstrated when not in his presence. It comes also in our speech and disposition. To revere someone also means that we revere his words and commands with respect and honor, not judgment and placing our own opinions above his.
Obedience/Docility: With reverence and fealty comes obedience and docility. This is not simply an obedience out of fear and subservience, but with love and faith in the King, we gladly follow his lead even when we may not agree or see the wisdom of what he asks; we do not need to be convinced and are easily directed by him.
Stewardship: The steward owns nothing of his own, receiving what the King has given and placed in his charge, treating all things as if belonging to the King.
Love & Faith: A King is looked upon with love, because he loved us first and our faith is placed in him, that being the anointed and chosen by God he is both capable and willing to lead his Kingdom to Glory.
