Sunday 22nd November is the Feast of Christ the King. This meditation has been written to be used with the image on one of our Gazing Cards, copies of which are available to purchase from our online shop, or the image could be shared on a screen.
The text is below or you can download a Word version.
Bible Reading
Ephesians 1: 15-end
15 I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love towards all the saints, and for this reason 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. 17 I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, 18 so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. 20 God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. 22 And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
Meditation
Today is the feast of Christ the King, when we remember that God has raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places. Spend a moment to settle your mind and body, and to know that Christ is here with us.
Pause
As you look at this image, notice the sumptuous royal robes, and the crown that Christ is wearing. He is our king, far above all earthly rule and authority and power and dominion. His is a kingdom of justice with mercy, of peace and of love.
As you look at Christ in all his splendour, know that nothing in this world – not death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Pause
Notice the halo that surrounds Christ’s head, a symbol of his holiness. Remember that Christ sits at the right hand of God; with God and in God and of God. He hears our prayers; knows the cries of our hearts; shares in our joys.
As you look at this holy Christ, know that he understands what it means to be human and is now in the heavenly places, watching over you, sustaining and upholding you by his Spirit.
Pause
Notice the book that Christ holds in his left hand. A New Testament, open for us to receive all that is within. Christ is our teacher. As we come to know him through his word, we receive his spirit of wisdom and revelation.
As you look at this open book, ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, that you may find renewed hope in Christ, and come to know him ever more deeply.
Pause
Notice Christ’s right hand. It is raised to offer a blessing. His blessing, his favour and protection is with us. With us even when we are poor, when we are hungry, when we weep, when we are hated or persecuted.
As you look at his hand, receive his blessing. Know that Christ loves you and protects you.
Pause
Finally, notice Christ’s face. See his eyes, wide open and looking at you.
Is there something that you want to say to him; to give to him; to leave with him?
Pause
Is there something that Christ wants to say to you?
Pause
God the Father, Help us to hear the call of Christ the King and to follow in his service, Whose kingdom has no end; For he reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, one glory. Amen.
I love this scripture and powerful prayer from Paul to the Ephesians. It resonates with the scripture we studied this afternoon, the seasonal verses of Isaiah 9:1-7. Of the increase of His government there will be no end. Thank you for the meditation.