Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Thanks to your support and prayers, I had a wonderful 4 day silent retreat at St. Francis Friary in Hillsborough last weekend. It was a great opportunity to spend time with God alone in a beautiful setting. The photo in the cover letter was taken while I was there. I was struck that different kinds of birds were resting on the tree together! It reminded me of what it is like to be the kingdom of heaven. (The photos here were also taken at the retreat). I refreshed, renewed, transformed, – not quite the same as I arrived.
This Sunday we are celebrating Christ the King Sunday, sometimes referred to as the Reign of Christ. Established in the early 20th century (around the time when Christian Churches were wresting with ongoing wars), Christ the King Sunday calls Christians to reflect on the sovereignty of Jesus Christ over all aspects of life. This feast day serves as a culmination of the liturgical year.
From this day, we look forward to the season of Advent. We see Jesus, not as the King coming to reign, but as the one who comes as a baby in a manger. Yet it is the same Jesus who is King of Kings and asks of us our all. All these are the One we worship. All of these are the One we serve. I am inviting you to pause to reflect on the meaning of Christ’s kingship.
Celebrating in Christ,
Yukiko
