From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

“When the Son of Man comes…he will sit upon his glorious throne…he will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. (Matthew 25:31-46)

GLORIOUS THRONE: Here are some thoughts on my interactions with those in authority while growing up:

As a child, I appreciated my dad when he played football with me in the backyard – not so much when he disciplined me.

As a student, I appreciated my teacher when she told jokes before class or complimented me on my school work – not so much when she corrected me or pointed out my academic shortcomings.

You likely see a pattern developing. I appreciated coaches that praised my athletic ability, bosses that give me glowing job reviews, and pastors that know the value of a quality parish deacon.

It is the same with my relationship with Jesus. I appreciate the Jesus that tells stories, heals the sick, and loves unconditionally. However, I can’t get excited about “Throne Jesus.”

I think there are two reasons for this: First, and I have already admitted this to you, being held accountable makes me uncomfortable. What if I am a goat?

Second, my current understanding of what a king does and what his kingdom looks like are not compatible with my understanding of who Jesus is.

I want my Jesus sitting in my fishing boat, telling me how much he loves me. He is my companion and friend. I don’t want my Jesus on a throne judging me, deciding if I am a sheep or a goat.

The dad that threw the football with me was the same dad that disciplined me – held me accountable. He was the same dad with the dual responsibilities of companionship and authority.

The teacher that told jokes before class and complimented my school work was the same teacher that corrected me and pointed out my academic shortcomings – held me accountable. She was the same teacher with the dual responsibilities of companionship and authority.

The Jesus that sits in my fishing boat and assures me I am loved is the same Jesus that sits on a throne and warns me not to be a goat – holds me accountable. He is the same Jesus with the dual responsibilities of companionship and authority, both friend and king.

Jesus is all we need him to be: friend, guide, confidant, conscience, and yes, king.