This is the King of the Jews

“And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!’ The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, ‘If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!’ There was also an inscription over him, ‘This is the King of the Jews.’” (Luke 23:35-38) It seems rather odd that this Sunday’s gospel lesson would come from Luke’s story of the crucifixion.  That belongs on Good Friday, right?  And even if we remember that this is Christ the King Sunday (the last Sunday after Pentecost), it still is rather odd.  Jesus is being mocked as a “king.”  Where is the power; where is the authority?   Well, now that’s exactly the point, isn’t it?  In his weakness, we discover true power.  In his shame, we find our honor.  In his death, we discover our life.  Jesus reveals to us true power and authority by letting it go for our sakes.  Presidents are elected but then gone.  Nations rise and fall.  But the authority of King Jesus is absolute and his dominion will never end.  There is nothing on heaven or on earth that can change that.  Now that’s good news for everyone (regardless of your politics)!