The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

Jesus is questioned by Pilate and reveals His divine authority and mission. Even in judgement, He remains the judge of humanity.

Gospel according to John 18:33b-37

Pilate said to Jesus, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered, "Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?" Pilate answered, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?" Jesus answered, "My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here." So Pilate said to him, "Then you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."

Reflections

This Sunday’s Gospel describes an interrogation. Jesus was handed over to the Romans to be judged, and He is being questioned by Pontius Pilate. Although He is the one being interrogated, Jesus responds like a judge, although in an unconventional sense - He is demonstrated as the embodiment of Divine authority and truth. As such, the situation can be seen as ironic, since the Judge of humanity is being judged by a human authority. While He appears to be captured and held as a prisoner, Jesus’ confidence in the face of interrogation reflects His absolute devotion to the Divine mission He was sent to fulfill. In this passage, Jesus does not condemn, but rather, He seeks to reveal the Truth about Himself.

One interesting detail is Pilate’s interest in Jesus. Despite being a powerful governor, he shows a level of intrigue in Jesus’ claims of royalty. Pilate’s curiosity can be a reflection of our own understanding of the Divine Mysteries. It can be seen as a moment of grace, where Pilate may have been given an opportunity to encounter the truth about Jesus' identity through the Holy Spirit. It also reveals a struggle to understand a kingdom that is not of this world. At this moment, we are asked to reflect on the Mysteries of Jesus’ life and ministry.

Jesus’ claim to Kingship is seen as a political threat to the authority of the Jewish leaders. The Romans are equally concerned about the destabilization of their control over the people. This is a misunderstanding based on earthly ways of thinking. A contrast is made between earthly kingdoms and the Heavenly kingdom. Jesus’ Kingdom does not seek political power, or domination, or control. Instead, it is all about serving others and living according to God’s will. Jesus invites us to reflect on our temptations toward worldly power, and prompts us to align our lives with the will of our Heavenly Father.

In this passage, Jesus emphasizes His role in the revelation of God’s Truth to humanity. This is most evidently demonstrated when He declares to Pilate: “For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.” This Truth that Jesus reveals is much more than just a set of rules or doctrines. It is a living truth, and we are beckoned to let it transform our lives. Jesus' commitment, even when faced with death, challenges His followers to live an authentic life of faith.