Do we live like Pontius Pilate or rather like Nathaniel?

The question of whether Jesus is a King (or not) troubled Pilate. He could see there was something remarkable about Jesus but couldn't bring himself to see Jesus as a king. Pilate's vision was too narrow - all he imagined was another worldly ruler, come to exert power and to challenge his leadership. Yet, there was something in Jesus that moved Pilate to ask some deep questions, especially regarding Truth.

"Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” - John 18:33

On the other hand, Nathaniel didn't need much convincing. He encountered Jesus and soon expressed his devotion:

John 1:48-49 - “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.”
Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.”

Thought: Are we more like Pontius Pilate or Nathaniel?

Living in Grace

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The end of the year - Christ the King Sunday

In the Christian calendar today (21st November) marks the last Sunday of the liturgical year. Today is known as Christ the King Sunday and it is a special reminder of our King, Jesus. Next Sunday marks the beginning of the season of Advent, which is our preparation for the arrival of the Messiah. 

I know that it can seem a little confusing, as the official end of the year is usually the 31st December, but I think it is a good way of reminding ourselves that we belong to a different kingdom. Jesus spoke about his kingdom often and it was his clear conviction that he came to establish a new reign and that his kingdom was not of this world.

As we journey towards the conclusion of this liturgical year perhaps it would be a good practise to ask ourselves what we are hoping for in the new season of Advent. Will Advent usher in the peace, hope, joy and love we all seek? Should we not turn again to Jesus Christ, the one who can make all our hopes a reality?

"Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” - John 18:36

Living in Grace

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To live differently

Following Jesus is an invitation for us to live differently. Often we find that we are called to go against the flow or to see the world in a new light. Jesus said: “My kingdom is not of this world." (John 18:36)

In his thought-provoking prayer, Pedro Casaldaliga writes about a similar attitude:

"Against the orders of hate
you bring us the law of love.
In the face of so many lies
you are the truth out loud.
Amid so much news of death
you have the word of life.
After so many false promises, frustrated hopes,
you have, Lord Jesus, the last word,
and we have put all our trust in you.
Alleluia, Alleluia." 

I am grateful that the Lord has the last word, despite what happens all around us.

Living in Grace

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Defining moment

"And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land" - Jonah 2:10

I see this moment as the most defining in Jonah's life. I know that there are a few other moments which could be as influential as this one, but I think this is his watershed. God grants him a second chance and after allowing Jonah time to reflect on his mistakes, God sends him out again.

Can you remember a defining moment in your life? A moment, which changed the course of your life or impact upon your future?

John 18:27 - "Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow." (Peter's defining moment)

Living in Grace

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