Newsletter – Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

REFLECTION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE – by Lisa-Marie Calderone-Stewart

Jesus tells his closest friends that he is the Messiah, the One chosen to come and lead Israel into a new way of life. Only, their idea of a messiah king is different. They are waiting for a Jewish political leader who will take over the nation and destroy their enemies, then persecute them the way the Jews have been persecuted by the political powers of their time. The ways of Jesus are different. He is a ‘king’ of nonviolence, forgiveness, unconditional love and service.

How would this difference in the expectations of a messiah king affect the perceptions of Jesus’ followers?

How might it lead to them doubting that he is truly the Messiah?

How might it explain their cowardice at the time of Jesus’ arrest and trial?

The Lord’s Prayer we pray at Mass every Sunday includes this line: ‘Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven’.

What does it mean for the Kingdom to come to earth, the same way it exists in heaven? What would that look like?

What would the world be like if everyone on earth did the will of God?

What part do you play in bringing to this world the Kingdom Jesus has in mind? Are you playing your part? If so, how? If not, why not?

It takes courage to play your part. When have you done something courageous for the Kingdom of Jesus? What happened? When have you had the chance, but not the courage you needed? What happened?

© St Mary’s Press
Lisa-Marie Calderone-Stewart (1958-2011) gained her doctorate in education from Cardinal Stritch University and was associate director of early adolescent ministry in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. Previously she served for six years as the director of youth ministry for the Diocese of Grand Island, Nebraska. She also established “Tomorrow’s Present”, a youth leadership ministry. She was a highly regarded speak and wrote many books on spirituality and youth ministry.