Christ, King of the Universe
November 21, 2021 •
Read the Gospel of Luke 19:11-28. Father refers to this parable extensively in the last half of his homily.
By misunderstanding the definition of "meek" (power under control), we like to think Jesus is weak, lenient, that He's a pushover; that's our attitude. But that's very dangerous....
"I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their King, bring them here and slay them before me."
This is a difficult teaching. Jesus is not either merciful or just. He is perfectly both. He veils His power in order to win us by love. But if that does not work, He will reveal His power and condemn us. Either way, we will submit to Him.
By love. Or by force. Because He is the King. All must submit. ...
Imagine that you square up against another Who is all mighty, and you refuse to humble yourself. That's a very imprudent move. ...
But is Jesus unfair in His judgement of His servants? Notice He says take that one gold coin from the one servant and give it to the other who has ten. And some of the people said, "Sir, he's already got ten." The Lord says, "Those who have will get more. Those who do not have, even what they have will be taken away." What is He talking about?
When our Lord speaks of gold, He is not referring to money. What is precious to Jesus?
Love. Self-sacrificial love.
When He gives that love - that gold - to each one of us who have been forgiven of our sins, He expects the investment He's made in us to also be be made in others. He expects us to take this precious gold of His love and then love in turn our brothers and sisters in Christ, our neighbor.
Father continues to unpack this parable for us. As we head into the Advent season, please listen and meditate on his homily.
Dn 7:13-14; Ps 93:1-2, 5; Rv 1:5-8; Jn 18:33b-37
Homily begins at 20:07