November 20, 2011
Our Lord Jesus Christ the King
Above the head of Jesus on the crucifix are the letters INRI -- Latin letters for "Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews." Pontius Pilate asks Jesus if he is a king. Jesus explains that his kingdom is not of this world -- breaking into by not of this world. Today in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells a parable of the coming of the Son of Man when the great king will sit in judgment on the nations. We will be judged on whether or not we fed, gave water, welcomed, clothed, cared for, visited the king -- disguised in the least of our brothers and sisters. Surprised, we will ask when did we extend this kindness. The King will say: "Truly, I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me." Next weekend is the beginning of Advent and the inauguration of the New Roman Missal. The new English translation is closer to the Latin text. The new words will be included in our 2012 Heritage Missal and highlighted on a card in the pews. It will take some time but we will adjust to the changes. I am also inviting the congregation to kneel after the Lamb of God which is the custom in the Diocese of Buffalo.
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