SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING, B

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THE PROCESSION OF THE KING



Every year, we run across the feast of Christ the King. It is an august moment in our country, with vigils, processions, Solemn Eucharist. Houses where the procession will pass are decorated with flags, flowers, altars and candles to honor the King who comes carried by the priest in the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament. 

At least once a year, we remember who our king is, or who our king should be, so that we will not forget to give him the space in our heart he deserves.

The Christ the King procession gives so much meaning to people as they witness the Blessed Sacrament, borne by the priest, pass through through the streets of the community. People feel blessed. They offer their prayers of thanks and petition. The Lord is passing by and his graces fall on those who are waiting for it.

We Filipinos give much significance to this procession, as the highlight of the whole liturgical calendar. Coming at the end, it is the climax of our religious piety. So close to Advent, it is the bridge towards the newness that is the promise of the coming of the Son of God.

The most important message of this procession seems to be that our King is not confined to his palace. Our King does not rest comfortably in his riches and glory. He visits us. He wants to meet us. He looks for his people.

This year, Jesus again walks the streets of our lives. He comes to comfort the grieving in France, Iraq and Syria.  He touches those who suffer in the bed of pain and sickness, in their homes or in hospitals.  He embraces the people who have no homes but the streets and no beds but the cold ground.  He speaks to the heart of those who are hurting, troubled, hopeless, frightened, threatened, and unloved.

Our King is with us and we have no reason to fear. Our King shares his love and peace. Our King, Jesus, joins us in our own daily pilgrimage of struggle and sacrifice.

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