Feast of Christ the King
Dear Diary,
This morning was crisp, with a golden sun shining through the frost-kissed trees. It felt fitting for the Feast of Christ the King, a day to remember His reign over all creation. Sister Mary Claire and I bundled up and walked to Mass, with Mini at our side, her little bottom wagging with joy. She always makes our mornings brighter.
Father LeRoy's homily today was especially meaningful. He reflected on Jesus' words in the Gospel: “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36), and reminded us that Christ’s kingdom isn’t built on power or riches but on love, sacrifice, and truth. He introduced a Spanish phrase that I loved: “El que no vive para servir, no sirve para vivir.” It means, “He who does not live to serve, does not serve to live.”
Father shared a story from his time as a missionary in South America. He met a young boy named Mateo who was poor but rich in kindness. Mateo would carry water from the well to his neighbors every day, helping elderly villagers who couldn’t manage it themselves. When Father asked him why he did it, Mateo simply smiled and said, “Porque Jesús lo haría”—“Because Jesus would do it.” Father said Mateo’s actions were a glimpse of Christ’s kingdom on earth, where service and love shine brightest.
The story stayed with me all day. It made me think of the small ways I can serve, whether it’s helping Sister Mary Claire with chores or sharing the eggs from our hens with the Breakfast Club. Even Mini, in her own way, serves by bringing us so much joy and comfort!
Tonight, as Sister Mary Claire and I settled into bed, I could still hear Father LeRoy’s voice in my heart, reminding us that Christ’s kingdom is one of humility and love. Mini is stretched out at the foot of the bed, her little snores like music to my ears. I whispered the Spanish phrase one more time before closing my eyes: “El que no vive para servir, no sirve para vivir.”
"O Jesus, King of the Universe, reign in my heart today and always."
Goodnight, dear Diary.
Love,
Kathy