Father Michael reflects on the Feast of Christ the King by focusing on the powerful encounter between Jesus and Pilate in John’s Gospel (18:33–37). He highlights this moment as a clash between two very different kinds of power: the political and military power represented by Pilate and the Roman Empire, and the spiritual, God-given authority represented by Jesus. Though Jesus appears weak, broken, and humiliated, Father Michael invites listeners to see that a deeper and truer form of power is present in him.
To deepen this idea, Father Michael recalls the 1943 Tehran Conference, where Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin met to shape the future of the world. He tells the story of Stalin’s famous comment about the Pope — “How many divisions does he have?” — to illustrate how worldly leaders often measure power in terms of armies, influence, and control. Yet the story endures because it reveals a deeper intuition: that there are kinds of power in the world that go beyond military or political strength.
Returning to the Gospel, Father Michael explores how Pilate treats Jesus with contempt, asking, “Are you a king?” not out of genuine curiosity, but as mockery. Jesus stands powerless before the strongest empire of his time, and even Peter struggles in the face of such overwhelming force. Father Michael gently asks his listeners to consider their own lives: Which powers intimidate or attract us? Which powers do we trust? And where do we really place our hope — in the forces of the world, or in the quiet, hidden power of God?
Finally, Father Michael draws attention to Peter’s eventual awakening and the journey of the first Christians, who came to recognise Jesus as the true source of power. He points to Jesus’ words in John’s Gospel, especially the image of the vine and the branches and the command to “abide in my love.” This, Father Michael explains, is the heart of the Christian life: not aligning ourselves with worldly power, but living in communion with Christ. The true invitation of Christ the King is to discover God’s power through love, humility, and faithful union with Jesus.
Journal and reflect on the following
When I think about power, what does it usually look like in my life? Strength, success, control, influence—or something else?
Where in my life might I be trusting worldly power (status, approval, security, wealth) more than God’s power?
How do I respond when I feel small, weak, or powerless? Do these moments draw me closer to God or further away?
What does Jesus’ invitation to “abide in my love” mean for my everyday life, relationships, and decisions?
Have I ever experienced a moment where I sensed a quiet inner strength from God, rather than outer success or control? What was that like?
In what ways am I being called to live more as a follower of “the Way” rather than chasing recognition or worldly success?
After reflecting on Christ as King, what is one small change I feel invited to make in how I live, pray, or love others?
Song - the servant king
Final Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You are not a King of power and force, but a King of mercy, truth, and love.You stand before us not to command with fear, but to invite us into your heart.Help us to see that true strength is found in humility, true greatness in service, and true power in love.
Teach us to trust your kingdom above all earthly powers.When we feel small, afraid, or overwhelmed, remind us that you are with us.Help us to abide in your love, to live in your truth, and to walk faithfully in your way.
May our lives reflect your light, our hearts remain open to your presence,and our choices always lead us closer to you, our King and our Saviour.We ask this in your holy name. Amen.
(Audio Available)
