O King

  "O King of all the nations, the only joy of every human heart" begins the sixth O Antiphon.  Since we looked at the kingship and Kingdom of God in November and December, we won't spend much time on it today except to say that he is not the usual type of earthly king.  The Israelites expected a king in the mold of David who would wage wars against their enemies.  Isaiah says, "Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.  For to us a child is born, to us a child is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.  He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever" (Isaiah 9:5-7).
  Our God is not a God of war, but a God of peace.  His weapons, our weapons, are spiritual because people are not our enemy.  Our enemy, God's enemy, is Satan and his works.  When we complete the defeat of Satan, full peace will be restored in the Kingdom of God on earth.  Our weapons are prayer, forgiveness, reconciliation, healing, salvation, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 13). All of these destroy Satan's stronghold and deliver people into the Kingdom of God.  For God wants everyone to be saved and to join him in his Kingdom.

  For Reflection:  Have I slipped into the mindset of considering any person to be my enemy?
  Let us pray.  Jesus, you are Messiah, King, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God and Prince of Peace.  The government of justice and righteousness is on your shoulders.  Change my mindset and give me eyes to see my true enemy.  Let me be a warrior using your weapons to bring peace and justice.

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