Today is the last Sunday before Advent, the last Sunday of the Church’s lectionary year, the day when the Church celebrates the Feast of Christ the King. Here is the triumphal acknowledgement that Christ reigns. The image offered from John’s Gospel is from the conversation between Jesus and Pilate. Pilate asks Jesus the direct question ‘Are you the King of the Jews?’ Jesus takes this as an opportunity to define his kingdom as ‘not from this world’. The theme of Christ the King provides an appropriate reason for celebration before the more sombre days of Advent begin. One way to celebrate is by holding a festival.
For those of you who wanted to do some thinking and preparation for today’s service during the preceding week, I invited reflection on the image of festival time. In today’s picture from their book, Exploring Buddhism, Sara and Rees are enjoying an outdoor festival with their friends.
Lord Jesus,
you are Christ the King,
your reign has no end.
Inspire us to live as your disciples,
to display your reign in our lives,
and to rejoice in your glory;
now and always.
Amen.
Next Sunday, Advent Sunday, opens a new year in the life of the Church. During this new year we will be following Luke’s Gospel. The season of Advent calls us to be ready to welcome the birth of Christ on Christmas Day. The image to help us prepare for next Sunday’s theme is Advent calendar. You can find out more about that theme by looking at the Educational Resources and the Preparation Resources.
Prayer Requests
Would you like to submit a prayer request? You can do so through the Prayer for Liverpool website.
Notice Sheet
Would you like to sign up to receive the Cathedral’s weekly notice sheet? You can do so here.
A Timeless Christmas at Liverpool Cathedral: Where Traditions Come Alive