The Gospel lesson for Christ the King Sunday shows us Jesus being mocked on the cross and his famous words to the repentant thief: "Today you will be with me in paradise." Peter Walsh and John Kennedy explain why this is the perfect piece of scripture for Christ the King, how this is a lesson in divine humility, and why we should be cautious about exclusively believing the kingdom is on Earth or elsewhere.
Questions for Further Discussion:
Themes and Application:
- Kingship Reimagined: What does this passage teach about God’s power expressed through humility rather than dominance?
- Forgiveness in the Face of Violence: What stands out to you about Jesus offering forgiveness before anyone repents?
- The Meaning of Paradise: Jesus’ promise of “today you will be with me in Paradise” reframes heaven as companionship with Christ.
How might this reshape how we think about death, hope, or eternal life?
Personal Reflection:
- Opening the Heart: The clergy describe salvation not as a transaction but as an opening of the heart. Where do you sense your own heart opening—or resisting—God’s love?
- Responding to Mockery and Pain: What experiences in your life make it difficult to respond with the mercy and restraint Jesus shows here?
- Paradise as God’s Presence: If Paradise is walking with the King—presence, companionship, intimacy—when have you sensed moments of “Paradise” in this life?
Broader Spiritual Considerations:
- The Nature of Salvation: The clergy critique overly formulaic views of salvation. In your own understanding, what is salvation for? How might this passage broaden or complicate your theology of who is saved and how?
- Love as the First Word: Peter suggests Christians often lead with sin rather than love. What might change—within the Church, or in the wider world—if love were always the first word?
- Living Between the Gardens: If Eden represents our origin and Paradise our fulfillment, what does it mean to live faithfully in the “in-between”—in a world marked by both beauty and brokenness?
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Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org
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