Intermediate Session
2 Samuel 5:1-3
Luke 23:35-43

Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus your only son to save us.
Help us to follow Jesus’ example of love and service.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The image for today is Jesus as King. Begin by inviting the children to reflect on the many names for Jesus. Provide paper and markers and have them draw a symbol to represent one of the names for Jesus. Discuss:
• How do we get to know who Jesus is?
• Why is Jesus given the title “Christ the King”?
• What kind of a king is Jesus?

Allow time for discussion. Today on the feast of Christ the King, we honor Jesus as ruler of all.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading listen to how David is named ruler over Israel.

Read 2 Samuel 5:1-3.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters
• Why is David chosen to be ruler?
• Who chooses David?
• What kind of leader is he?

In the gospel today listen to find out where Jesus is king.

Read Luke 23:35-43.
Allow for silence.

• Who mocks Jesus while he hangs on the cross?
• Where is Jesus’ kingdom?
• Who asks Jesus if he can come into his kingdom?

Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings.

On this last Sunday of the liturgical year, the Church celebrates the feast of Christ the King. In today’s feast we recognize and honor Christ as ruler of all.

The Old Testament reading recalls the anointing of David, King of Israel. David was Israel’s first true king. The people choose David because they believe that he is God’s choice to shepherd the people of Israel. David also has led many military victories for the people of Israel. In today’s passage, the leaders bring two kingdoms together by acclaiming David as King--Judah in the south and Israel in the north.

Today’s gospel will not allow us to confuse Christ’s reign with earthly power and prestige. The image of Jesus suffering and dying on the cross reveals to us a king with a different kind of power. By the power of his love, Jesus is shown to be a king who is willing to die for the salvation of all.

In this passage, while Jesus hangs on the cross, the leaders and soldiers who taunt him wonder what kind of king he is. A criminal, who is beside Jesus, asks to be taken into Jesus’ kingdom. This gospel account helps us to see that Christ is the king who cannot be overcome by the world, or by sin, or by death. His reign brings salvation to the outcast and the sinner, and brings hope to us all.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Why do kings and rulers have power?
• How does Jesus use his power?
• How does Jesus overcome death?

[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Christ the King
The image of Christ the King that we find in today’s gospel challenges our ideas of what a king or ruler should be. Jesus is not seated on a luxurious throne surrounded by people who await his command. Instead, the king in the gospel scene is mocked and left to die on a cross.

We could say that the cross is the throne of Christ the king, because by the power of his love Jesus conquered death. By his cross and resurrection Jesus Christ has brought about the salvation of all people. Jesus is ruler of all and everything and everyone are subject to the power of his saving love and goodness.

• What are some qualities of a good ruler or king?
• How does Jesus rule?
• How does Jesus show the power of his love?

The Gospel in Life
How can you honor Christ the King this week?

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 11
Grade 4, chapter 11
Grade 5, chapter 11
Grade 6, chapter 12

Connecting to Faith First® Original Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 11
Grade 4, chapter 11
Grade 5, chapter 11
Grade 6, chapter 12