One of the big tourist attractions in Europe is the palaces and castles. The glory of the kings and queens, once upon a time.  The lands they owned, the number of soldiers that defended them, and their wealth are something to behold. In fact, in 2022, there are 10 countries with a royal family, including Denmark, Sweden, United Kingdom, Spain, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

Christ is also a king, but it is not a kingdom here on earth. In fact, in the Gospel it was said, Jesus was jeered by the rulers, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God; the soldiers jeered him: If you are king of the Jews, save yourself.” The criminal also jeered him, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us.”

Notice everyone was talking about another Kingdom. The greatest proof from Jesus was when he told the other criminal, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

We are reminded of three practical things in our daily lives:

1. We have a Mission on Earth.  We Christians are here in this world but not of this world. Hence, we have a Mission to make this world a better place to live in. We have a mission to combat sin, injustice, greed, and the many evils on earth. This can only be done if we love God and we love our neighbor. 
2. Do not get tired of doing good. In the end, on judgment day, the sheep will be separated from the goats. The sheep are the blessed and the goats are the accursed. The basis for Judgement, “Whatever you do to the least of your brethren you did unto me.”
3. Know what is important versus what is fleeting in life. Remember that we are only passing by in this world. We came into this world with nothing and we are leaving this world with nothing, as we have a home in heaven. Hence, why put all our efforts, emotions, plans, and decisions for this world which will just end?

As we go through this Lenten season, we are reminded that everything in this world will end, but in the meantime, with the borrowed time we have, may Jesus be truly the King. Have faithfulness to the Mission do not tire of doing good, and know what is important versus what is passing in life.