Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ He replied, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.’ Luke 23 : 42 -- 43
Readings this week Jeremiah 23 : 1 - 6; Colossians 1 : 11 - 20; Luke 23 : 33 - 43
Some thoughts for this week
This Sunday is known as ‘Christ the King Sunday'. It comes before journey of Advent, when we remember the sovereignty of Jesus, His greatness and majesty over all things. How he is the Lord of lords who came to us in such humility, and revealed His love.
As we proclaim the Kingdom of Jesus, the world is in such turmoil. We might ask questions of our leaders, those who are set in authority, those who call us to follow, of their commitment to justice and peace. It is good to reflect on the servant Kingship of Jesus, and the challenge to each of us to follow faithfully and prayerfully, and lay aside all that is not of Jesus’ Kingship.
Three years ago Rev Stella wrote : “On the cross, Jesus doesn't look much like a king. But the penitent thief recognises him, and so do all those who look to him to be led out of the trials and limitations of this world.
Christ is our King; the King of the whole world. He is King in all those places where he seems least evident, in the Sudan, the Ukraine, Gaza and Israel. (updated) But also in places where his wisdom, justice and righteousness flourish. May the Church be a beacon of His just kingdom”
Prayer for this week
Eternal Father, whose Son Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven that he might rule over all things as Lord and King: keep the Church in the unity of the Spirit and in the bond of peace, and bring the whole created order to worship at his feet; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
God the Father, help us to hear the call of Christ the King and to follow in his service, whose kingdom has no end; for he reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, one glory. Amen
We praise the Lord and give thanks …
For our faithful prayer ministry
For our visiting ministry
For the season of Advent as a time of reflection and listening to the Lord
For our involvement with our community as we approach Advent