Happy Monday, digital neighbors at the Rubin Report, Phetasy, and at Padre’s! Another day closer to Christmas, another O Antiphon! Today we reflect upon the King of Nations. Of all the titles, this one probably sits the least well with me. Most of us think a global anything is usually for the worst—and double down on that with an unelected and unaccountable head of state, and you get any one of hundreds of dystopian scenarios. “King of the world” usually comes with a mountain of disposable people.

It is hard to believe there could really be a selfless leader. I always grew up with the story of Cincinnatus and George Washington. (Apparently many doubt the stories around Cincinnatus and his selfless service as dictator before returning to the simple life of the farm.) The movie Gladiator carried that same vibe—one of my favorites. George Washington is a more recent example, and we know he walked away from the chance to become President for Life. Power doesn’t always corrupt, but few can resist its pull toward the dark side. My frequent rants against the Careerists of DC tell you more than enough about my distaste.

King of Nations—In the world of Catholicism and other disciples of the Risen One, their King is on a Cross. Not exactly the throne worldly leaders aspire to obtain. Sure, there is judgment, the specter of Hell, and the hope of Heaven, but the King of Nations is about reconciliation—even if it is practiced poorly by so many of His adherents. A King of justice, a Lord of mercy, a leader of service rather than privilege, is preferable to the corruption we have always accepted. Disciples are called to be different, but even worldly corruption infects their communities if they are around long enough. Anyone who happily points out the splinter is just waiting for their own plank to be revealed. Disciples know they struggle; hypocrites are blind and deny that they do. The skeptics among us still think leaving society behind might be the better option in the end—humanity is just too broken, and authority is just too corrupt. I don’t subscribe to that Jeremiah Johnson view (though I do like the movie) of moving away from civilization, but no one can deny the brokenness or pretend there isn’t corruption.

Longing for a King of genuine honor, actual integrity, and a sense of servant-leadership is a longing felt by all people who live under oppression. The vast majority are happy to let others lead as long as they aren’t in a state of non-stop suffering. Rome had its bread and circuses; we have ours. Distracting people from the emptiness of their lives, suffocating desire so they settle for having more rather than being more—that is the key to placation. This King does not want placated masses but converted ones. He is not seeking blind obedience, but loving trust that calls us to a more complete life. Jockeying for equality is not an issue in His kingdom: all are individuals bound together by a common trust, with gifts portioned to each according to his or her ability. Each will have their role if they can properly discern it. Envy will always make us believe that we have been cheated, that others have been given more, or better, or more desirable gifts or lots in life. His Kingdom is devoid of envy, anger, pride, or any sin for that matter. Humanity is remade by contrition, atonement, trust, and surrender. It can begin now; it is completed then for most of us. Disciples seek to abide in gratitude for the gift of being alive and being invited to know, follow, and love the King of the Nations. Blessed Monday, Friends & Refugees, Early Birds & Later Dayers, Phamily, Dawn Patrol, and Political Homeless! Have a great day, Curmudgeons, WSN Curators, and ADD Irregulars!