Today, on the final Sunday of that Extended Advent, Christ the King Sunday gives us the purest possible picture of the coming King: not riding on the clouds with armies of angels (we will see that later), but reigning now, already, from the throne of the cross.
As Advent approaches, the lectionary turns our eyes toward judgment and hope. Jesus warns of trials, Malachi promises a book of remembrance for the faithful, and Psalm 98 calls creation to sing. By endurance we gain our lives, and the sun of righteousness rises with healing.
On All Saints' Day, John's vision in Revelation 7 draws back the curtain: a multitude beyond counting, from every nation, robed in white, crying "Salvation belongs to our God." Their earthly woes become heavenly blessings, and the Eucharist becomes our foretaste of that great assembly.
On Rogation Sunday, we walk the line between effort and surrender that farmers know well, planting in faith, trusting God for the harvest. Jesus promises his abiding presence, the Holy Spirit's guidance, and a peace the world cannot give, anchors for every uncertain season of life.
On Maundy Thursday, Jesus rises from the table, removes his outer garments, and washes the feet of the disciples who will soon abandon him. Knowing his hour had come, knowing what it would cost, he loved them to the end. A reflection on John 13 and the heart of servanthood.