November 24, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for November 24th: Jeremiah 23:1-6, Luke 1:68-79, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 23:33-43; theme: Christ the King Sunday Colossians : This is Christ the King Sunday. An opportunity for us to think about who Christ is and why Christ is important to us. It was important for Paul to explain who Christ was in a way that would speak to the heart of the listener. Paul was a master of explaining what Christ has done for us. Paul says that Christ opened the doors so that all could share in his inheritance. He is a light in the midst of darkness, he is the image of God here on earth. Most importantly, he is the head of the church. As we reflect on each of the things that Christ has done for us, how can we not come to the conclusion that Christ is King? Luke: This is the last Sunday that we will be learning from the book of Luke. So it would be fitting that we read the end of the story – the crucifixion of Jesus. This is the story of how Jesus to the outskirts of town, and hung on a cross. This is the story of the passion. This is the very reason that Christ is King. The last words today’s story says I assure you that you will be with me in paradise. In the experience of death, Christ is forgiving us and preparing a place for us in the presence of God. In the resurrection, he shows that he has fulfilled his promise. And now that the door has been opened, we are free to walk through and experience the light in this life and the next. Questions: What does it mean for Christ to be King of the church? Of your life? How is Christ the image of God on Earth? How does the passion of Christ affect you? What lesson do you remember most from the book of Luke? How would you have reacted if you witnessed the crucifixion yourself?