Scripture Reflection - November 23, 2025

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

First Reading: 2 Samuel 5:1-3

Second Reading: Colossians 1:12-20

Gospel: Luke 23:35-43

“The Family Bond of All Creation”

The readings for the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, invite us to see a very different kind of kingship—one far closer to kinship than to domination or control. In 2 Samuel, the tribes recognize David because he has shepherded them; his authority grows from relationship and responsibility, not force. Colossians deepens this vision by presenting Christ as the One in whom “all things hold together”—the center of a vast web of relationships that includes people, creatures, and the whole cosmos. Luke’s Gospel reveals the fullest expression of this kinship-kingship: Christ reigns from the cross, offering mercy to the one beside Him. His throne is vulnerability, His crown is compassion, His power is self-giving love.

Today, this solemnity calls us to rethink kingship through the lens of relationality rather than hierarchy. Christ’s reign is not about ruling over subjects but gathering all creation into a reconciled family. Jesus expresses his authority in tenderness, solidarity, and self-giving love. In this light, Christ the King is also Christ the Brother—offering kinship that heals, restores, and brings the world into right relationship.

Laudato Si’ names this interconnected reality as integral ecology. Everything is connected: people to one another, humanity to the earth, ecosystems to human well-being, and the present moment to future generations. Christ’s kinship-kingship affirms that creation is not a resource to exploit but a community to cherish. When the earth suffers—through pollution, climate change, or disregard for the poor—the harmony upheld in Christ is fractured.

To celebrate this solemnity today is to step into our role as kin within Christ’s creation. We honor His reign when we practice care for the earth, protect vulnerable communities, and mend fractured relationships. Kinship invites humility and responsibility: a willingness to live gently, consume wisely, and act in solidarity with all beings who share this common home.

Christ’s kingship is ultimately a family bond that draws all creation into unity. Our vocation is to live as true kin—agents of healing, justice, and ecological care in a world longing for belonging.

Reflection Questions:

Where in my daily life do I still treat creation as something to use rather than a family to which I belong?

What concrete step—small but real—can I take this week to heal a relationship with a person, community, or part of creation?

Sr. Didi Madden, OP