Reflections for the Feast of Christ the King and the Threshold of Advent

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5

The final Sunday of the liturgical year, the Feast of Christ the King, is a crown placed gently upon all that has come before. It’s the Church’s reminder that every season, every joy, and every trial of the past year finds its fulfillment in Christ’s Kingship.

We stand now at a sacred threshold — the year ending, a new one soon beginning. The saints, our elder brothers and sisters in faith, walk this threshold with us. Their lives point like candles toward the coming Light of Christ, showing us how to wait, how to love, and how to reign with Him in humility.


 The Kingship of Christ in the Heart

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “to reign is to serve Him” (CCC 786). Christ’s kingship is not about worldly dominance but divine mercy — a rule of peace that begins in the quiet surrender of our hearts.

When we allow Christ to reign within us, our homes, families, and even our daily habits become extensions of His Kingdom. The smallest act of charity, the simplest prayer, the choice to forgive — these are the royal deeds of heaven on earth.

“For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.” — 1 Corinthians 15:25


Preparing for Advent with the Saints

The saints teach us not just how to serve God, but how to wait well — with faith, hope, and trust in His timing. As you prepare for Advent, let these holy friends guide your reflection.


St. Elizabeth of the Trinity — The Indwelling God

“Let yourself be loved.”

St. Elizabeth of the Trinity reminds us that holiness begins in stillness. Her writings invite us to rest deeply in the indwelling presence of God — not striving, not performing, simply being filled.

In these quiet November days, let her prayer become yours:

“O my God, Trinity whom I adore… make my soul Your heaven.”

Reflection:

Where in my life am I resisting stillness because I’m afraid of what silence will reveal?


St. Thérèse of Lisieux — The Little Way of Love

“My vocation is love.”

St. Thérèse teaches that small sacrifices done with great love have eternal weight. As Advent approaches, her simplicity calls us to slow down — to offer little acts of love in hidden ways.

Reflection:

How can I prepare for Christ’s coming through small, unnoticed acts of love today?


St. Catherine Labouré — The Hidden Vessel of Grace

“Come to the foot of the altar.”

Through St. Catherine, Mary revealed the Miraculous Medal — a sign of divine mercy poured out upon the world. Her quiet obedience opened rivers of grace.

As you prepare your Advent candles, think of her humble faith. Every light we kindle is a small “yes” that invites heaven to touch earth.

Reflection:

Do I believe God can work miracles through my ordinary faith?


Lighting the Threshold

Before Advent begins, pause to reflect: Christ is not only coming into the world — He is coming into you. The Feast of Christ the King is not the end of the story but the beginning of new light breaking through.

Let the saints’ witness become your Advent preparation: prayer in stillness, love in action, mercy in surrender.

“He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and His kingdom will have no end.” — Nicene Creed


Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe,

You reign not with power but with peace, not with fear but with love.

I crown You King of my heart and home today.

Help me to prepare for Your coming with the faith of Elizabeth,

the love of Thérèse, and the humility of Catherine.

May Your light shine in every darkness,

and may my life become a small reflection of Your eternal Kingdom.

Amen.

From My Grace Filled Lemons Heart to Yours,

Laura

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