Show Notes
In this twenty-seventh week of “Ordinary” (or “Normal”) time, Case celebrates Christ the King Sunday. He reflects on John 18 and the kingship of Jesus as we end the liturgical year.
Nuance’s Formed for Formation is a weekly liturgy to encourage all of us to be faithful to Christ in the public square. Join Case Thorp as he follows the Church calendar through the reading of Scripture, prayer, and short reflections on faith in all facets of public life.
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Episode Transcript
Welcome to our special episode where we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, marking the culmination of a full liturgical year of devotions, reflections, and spiritual growth. Today, we rejoice in the sovereignty of Christ, recognizing His reign over our hearts and the entire universe. As we reflect on the journey we’ve walked together through this liturgical year, we give thanks for the guidance, grace and love that have sustained us. Join us in this moment of celebration and gratitude as we crown our year with Christ our King and prepare our hearts for the seasons to come.
A reading from the Gospel of John beginning in chapter 18, beginning in verse 33.
Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”
“Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?”
“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”
Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”
“You are a king, then!” said Pilate.
Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”
Christ the King Sunday, celebrated the last Sunday of the liturgical year, is a day dedicated to honoring the sovereignty and kingship of Jesus Christ over all creation. John 18:33-37 offers profound insights into the nature of Jesus’ kingship, which is central to the observance of this feast. In his dialogue with Pilate, Jesus clarifies that his kingdom is not of this world.
Unlike earthly rulers who wield power through force, Jesus’ kingship is rooted in truth, justice, and love. His reign transcends political boundaries and is not confined by human definitions of power. What does it mean to call Christ our King? In this week, we are invited to reflect on the contrast between earthly authority and the divine kingship of Jesus.
His kingdom is marked not by domination, but by service and sacrifice, culminating in His death on the cross. This day reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are called to live under His reign, embracing the values of His kingdom, like truth, humility, and love. By celebrating Christ the King, we affirm our allegiance to a King whose power is eternal and whose rule brings true peace and justice to the world.
A reading from the book of Revelation, chapter one, beginning in verse four:
Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.
To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.
“Look, he is coming with the clouds,”
and “every eye will see him,
even those who pierced him”;
and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.”
So shall it be! Amen.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
A prayer of St. Augustine:
Christ Jesus, When all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of your presence, your love and your strength. Help us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power so that nothing may frighten or worry us. For living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things. Lord Jesus, our Redeemer and our King, rule over our hearts with your grace and truth. Help us to live as citizens of your kingdom, sharing your love and peace with those around us. May your reign be established in our lives, and may we always seek to honor you as our King. In your holy name we pray, Amen.
And finally, the 93rd Psalm.
The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty;
the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength;
indeed, the world is established, firm and secure.
Your throne was established long ago;
you are from all eternity.
The seas have lifted up, Lord,
the seas have lifted up their voice;
the seas have lifted up their pounding waves.
Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,
mightier than the breakers of the sea—
the Lord on high is mighty.
Your statutes, Lord, stand firm;
holiness adorns your house
for endless days.
