Let us build a Kingdom of Love

HOMILY FOR THIRTY – THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR C BY REV. AUGUSTINE ADETOLA

This is the last Sunday in the Liturgical Calendar of the Church. Next week, we begin the Season of Advent. Every year, on the 34^th Sunday in Ordinary time, we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King. This feast reminds us that Jesus is the true King. His rule is not about power or wealth. It is about love, mercy, and peace. He leads us by giving His life for us. This feast helps us see what real kingship means in God’s eyes.

In the first reading (2 Samuel 5:1-3), the people of Israel anointed David as their king. His rule was important, but it was temporary. All human leaders eventually pass away, and their kingdoms change. Every earthly kingdom comes to an end. The world has witnessed the rise and fall of many kingdoms in the past. We have read about the Babylonian kingdom, the Roman kingdom, and many others. We have even experienced the totalitarian rules of Sartin, Hitler and the rest. Kingdoms that have waged war and made life difficult for people. But Jesus is not just a human king. He is the ruler of all creation, and his reign has no end. His kingdom is different and special because in this kingdom, God seeks to establish in our hearts a kingdom of love, mercy and peace.

The second reading from Colossians 1:12-20 tells us that Jesus is the head of the Church and the image of God. Everything was created through him and for him. His kingdom is not like the kingdoms of the world. It is not based on power or wealth but on love and mercy. A kingdom based on power or wealth will be self-oriented and will be driven by selfish desires. It will not seek the good of the other person but one’s selfish interest. This is not the kind of kingdom God wants us to dwell in.

In the Gospel (Luke 23:35-43), one of the criminals on the cross recognized Jesus as King. He asked Jesus to remember him, and Jesus promised him a place in his kingdom. This shows that Jesus’ kingdom is not just for the powerful or important people. It is for anyone who turns to him in faith. His deep love for the thief made him promise eternal life. God loves us dearly that he is always ready to overlook our sins and draw us to himself.

For us to remain in God’s kingdom, we must emulate Jesus who loves us beyond our sins. We too must be ready to practice this love and show it to all people we meet, we talk to and relate with. Our love should not be only for those who are our friends, our love must go beyond and reach out to those whom we consider as enemies as well. This love must be expressed in the Church, in our place of work and even in our families.

As we prepare for Thanksgiving dinner, let us remember that our family gathering must be a place of love, mercy and peace. As we share the turkey and the food, we must do so in love. We can’t share food and harbor hatred in our hearts. We must become ambassadors of love wherever we find ourselves. By doing so, we build a kingdom of love.

Lord Jesus, you are our King. Your rule is not about power but about love. Help us to follow you and trust in your ways. Teach us to serve others and to live in your kingdom each day. Fill our hearts with faith and mercy. Amen.