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2 Sam 5:1-3
The reading highlights David’s election as king over all tribes in Hebron, although this is his third anointing, likely from different traditions brought together by Deuteronomic editors. The first anointing, when Samuel was led by God to anoint Jesse’s son as future king, makes his later claim to kingship divinely directed (1 Sam 16:13). He is later anointed as Judahite king (2 Sam 2:4). Before all tribes, David’s blood ties, military skill, and divine calling justify his selection. The shepherd-leader image echoes in Nathan’s oracle (2 Sam 7:8). David’s covenant with tribal leaders and subsequent anointing over the united kingdom, lasting over three decades, emphasize his role as deliverer and shepherd.
Col 1:12-20
The letter highlights Christ’s sovereignty, drawn from an early hymn emphasizing his central role in the universe and the church. It describes his activity in creation and redemption. Paul encourages giving thanks for salvation, likening it to the exodus from Satan’s realm to Christ’s kingdom, made possible through Jesus’ death and forgiveness of sins. The hymn extols Christ’s pre-eminence as the pre-existent God-Man, not just the eternal Word.
Lk 23:35-43
The gospel highlights the theologically significant recognition of Jesus through his titles. It contrasts the pain of opposition (vv35-38) with the consolation of conversion (vv39-42). The ‘people’ who later repent differ from the ‘rulers’ responsible for Jesus’ death. Jesus’ enemies mock him as the ‘Messiah of God’ and the ‘chosen one,’ yet their words, though cynical, are accurate, expressing his role as Savior through sacrifice. The inscription ‘King of the Jews’ (v38), opposed by Jewish leaders, emphasizes his identity as the Messiah, fulfilling the salvific work seen by the early church. The repentant criminal’s response shifts the scene, illustrating that salvation begins with genuine repentance. His recognition of Jesus’ innocence and kingship leads to Jesus’ promise of salvation ‘today,’ signifying the moment of entry into eternal life, especially for the rejected.
Christ is indeed the King of the Universe and the Savior of the World. Entitled King yet he teaches from the cross as the king who imparts forgiveness and full of compassion He is the Savior of everyone who repents and turns to him as the fount of salvation. Like the good thief, let us ask our savior and king for forgiveness so that he may truly reign in our hearts and bring us to his heavenly kingdom. Amen.
