St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church had Reverend Robert Johnston as pastor this Sunday, Christ the King Sunday. Neil Nichols served as the Lay Minister and John Greve read the Lessons.
The First Reading was 2 Samuel 23:1-7. These were the last words of King David spoken to his people. The spirit of the Lord spoke through him to deliver a message. David told how wonderful God had made his life and of the everlasting covenant that God made with him. He was secure in God’s love and promises for him and his generations to follow.
The Second Reading was Revelation 1:4-8. John tells about his vision of the second coming of Christ. “Every eye will see him, even those who pierced him.” “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.
Reverend Johnston read the Gospel of John 18:33-37. Pilate was questioning Jesus and asked him if he was a King of the Jews. Jesus told him that his kingdom was not of this world, but elsewhere. Jesus stated to him that he was brought into this world to testify to the truth. “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”
Reverend Johnston discussed how all of the readings revolved around David, King of Israel. The Jews have the symbol of the Star of David to this day. Today is Christ the King Sunday and brings to an end the days of the Pentecost and begins the season of Advent. This also is the beginning of a new church year. We recognize Christ as King of heaven and earth. He came to earth to fight sin and by his death, resurrection, and ascension he has won the war.
Modern day people seem to be slack about their religious beliefs. They need a renewal of faith and what is to come. We have been blessed with freedom of religion and worship. Christians should keep Christ alive in their hearts and minds. Jesus taught his disciples to serve and be humble. In the Last Supper he instituted the sacrifice in the Eucharist, but he also taught humility by washing the disciples’ feet. He said he had come to serve, not to be served. Hopefully, his disciples would follow his example and not expect to rule, but to serve.
Jesus told Pilate that he was a king, but not of this world. Truth is what Jesus is and why he came, to teach the truth to all. Through his conversation with Pilate, it was obvious that Jesus died an innocent man and had no guilt. Pilate knew this and that is why he literally washed his hands in front of the crowd so he would not be blamed for Jesus’ death.
Christ is our King and we are to serve him by carrying on his teachings and loving one another.
Announcements included the joyous news of Scott and Jessica being married this weekend. Scott is the son of Diane and John Greve. Members will meet at church Saturday at 9 a.m. and decorate the church for the Advent season. It will be a day of work and fun. Next Sunday service will be at 9 a.m. and all are welcome to join us and begin the new church year on Advent Sunday. Partners In Ministry: www.pimeast.org.
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