Today is Christ the King Sunday where Christians around the world celebrate the true kingship of Jesus as the Sovereign Ruler over all things. It is also the end of another Church year before the season of Advent where we remember the First Coming of Jesus by looking forward to His Second Coming.

Just as those in the Old Testament awaited the arrival of a promised King, we who live today also await His arrival and express our longings with songs of joy. One song that I sing after waking up each Christ the King Sunday is called “Alleluia, Sing To Jesus!” Last year I sang this hymn with uncertainty while closing a Church that deary loved, but this year I sing it with gratitude for where the Lord has brought me since then.

Happy Christ the King Sunday to all, and here is my prayer for this year’s celebration!

O Christ, Who rules all things and Whose name is above every name, we acknowledge You as King and celebrate Your reign with gratitude and joy. Forgive us for taking the scepter and throne that rightly belong to You, and for the many ways that we use power to exalt ourselves instead of serving others. We confess that we are are not the true sovereigns of this world and its nations, but subjects under Your gracious care and called to keep Your law of love. May Your Kingdom be more than an aspiration and idea in our hearts and minds, and more than something mentioned in our songs, sermons, and prayers. May it be a reality displayed in our lives, that draws those we encounter unto You and makes this world better. To You be all blessing and glory, wisdom and thanksgiving, honor and power and might, forever and ever. Amen.

The image featured in this post is by Scotty J. Williams.