Sunday November 23rd, 2014 Christ the King Sunday Matthew 25:31-46
"When the Son of Man comes in his glory and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory." (verse 31)
This is the last Sunday in the church year. A new year begins next Sunday. In our text, Jesus is preparing his followers for his crucifixion and resurrection less than a week away. He is assuring them of his return in overwhelming power and glory. His suffering and crucifixion are not the end, but a beginning. And they, and we, will share in that beginning.
He will return as the “Son of Man” (Daniel 7:13-14). He will come as the Shepherd King who will not just rule over, but will care for God’s people.
God’s people, you and me, live in this power and promise (Advent). We are part of the new kingdom. Because we are loved, forgiven and empowered, we can reach out to all those who are hurting. We can help introduce them to his new kingdom. And in so doing, we are reaching out and caring for our crucified Shepherd King. It’s never the end; it’s always the beginning!
Shepherd King, help us to know your love and inspire us to love all for whom you died. Amen. — BJ
Contributed by The End Is the Beginning
This is the last Sunday in the church year. A new year begins next Sunday. In our text, Jesus is preparing his followers for his crucifixion and resurrection less than a week away. He is assuring them of his return in overwhelming power and glory. His suffering and crucifixion are not the end, but a beginning. And they, and we, will share in that beginning.
He will return as the "Son of Man" (Daniel 7:13-14). He will come as the Shepherd King who will not just rule over, but will care for God's people.
God's people, you and me, live in this power and promise (Advent). We are part of the new kingdom. Because we are loved, forgiven and empowered, we can reach out to all those who are hurting. We can help introduce them to his new kingdom. And in so doing, we are reaching out and caring for our crucified Shepherd King. It's never the end; it's always the beginning!