The world of today seems to be much closer to us than ever before. We can see images of faraway places by just a few clicks on our computer or smart phone. We stay current in worldwide news through the Internet and watch our favorite movies over and over again on our mini pads. Videos of the latest disaster or merry moment are almost instantaneously available to us. We use our phones to check the weather before we leave our homes and we view and review our vacation destinations by web site.
These same devices that bring the world so close to us have caused many of us to disassociate ourselves from it. The world is at our fingertips yet many of us do not feel part of it anymore. The devises that make the world smaller also cut us off from its inhabitants. There is no need for interaction when everything we desire is at our fingertips. When we have no interaction with other people and places, we begin to separate ourselves from them. The problems we see others facing in different parts of the world become their problems not ours. The world does seem to be closer and smaller but is it more merciful and loving?
Today is the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. This feast day was established in 1925 by Pope Pius IX. It was created in response to a changing world view. People doubted the existence of God or the need for one. The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe should remind us that we are part of one kingdom. Though we may live in different parts of the world and have different cultures, we all are citizens of the Kingdom of God. Our King is King of the Universe. He is not a king that sits on his throne without regard for his people. Our King will not leave us to ourselves. He will seek us out and rescue those who call out to him. We hear in today’s readings that our King can be likened to a shepherd. He will attend his flock. He will search out all who have strayed and he will bind their wounds. Our God will give us rest and heal our illness.
Jesus has been given power to judge us all. Though king and judge, he is also our shepherd. He does not abandon us nor are we to abandon others. God created all of us. We are all citizens of God’s kingdom and we should live according to the precepts of our King, Jesus Christ. We are called to be merciful and loving. Our treatment of the people of God will decide if we inherit the kingdom of Jesus Christ.
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