My Kingdom is not of this world
As we reflect upon the Kingship of Jesus Christ, let us recall the time when Jesus was brought before Pilate for trial; Pilate asked Jesus: “Are you the King of the Jews?” (John 18:33) Jesus replied: “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” (John 18:36) “MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD” – what does it mean?
Some Christians have been taught to believe that those words meant that Jesus’ kingdom is a “spiritual” kingdom; that it is not a literal, physical and visible kingdom, but an invisible kingdom where Jesus “reigns in the hearts of men”. However, a fuller understanding of those words would mean that Jesus’ kingdom is more than just a “spiritual” kingdom. It would be a physical and visible kingdom, but it would also be totally different from the all the kingdoms and governments of the world. It will be a kingdom in which God’s will, shall always be accomplished on earth.
Christ the King already reigns through the Church, but all the things of this world are not yet subjected to him. (CCC 680) Though already present in His Church, Christ’s reign is yet to be fulfilled “with power and great glory” by His glorious return to earth. (CCC 671; cf. Lk 21:27, Mt 25:31) Christ’s Kingdom will be fulfilled, then, not by a historic triumph of the Church through a progressive ascendancy, but only by God’s final victory over evil. God’s triumph over evil will take the form of the Last Judgment after the final cosmic upheaval of this passing world. (CCC 677; cf. Rev 13:8, 20:7-10, 21:2-4, 20:12; 2 Pet 3:12-13).
Countries and individuals may attempt to make changes to various forms of government and faith institutions, but the complete eradication of evil in the world can never be achieved, because Satan’s hold on earth will be completely destroyed only in the Second Coming of Christ.
Thanksgiving Day is the day for us to give thanks to God for all the blessings we have received throughout the year. On November 28, 2019 our church will have its annual Thanksgiving Mass at 11:30 pm. Bread will be blessed and distributed to each family after Mass.
December 9 is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. The Mass on December 9 will be celebrated at 12:00 pm in English. The Immaculate Conception is the patronal feast day of the United States. All are invited to attend.
This year’s Giving Tuesday will be on December 3, 2019. From November 18 to December 3, invite your relatives and friends to make an online donation to HOLY NAME OF JESUS CHINESE CATHOLIC MISSION in the igivecatholic.org website. Our church has several capital projects planned, which includes fixing the roof leaks and finishing the second floor in the Education Building, and constructing a pavilion and mini-playground for our children.
HOW TO MAKE A DONATION:
|
| The gift shop is having its annual pre-Christmas sale. Drop by the gift shop and save from 5% to 25%. All items are discounted. Christmas cards are now available! |