"We Give Thanks for Salvation Stories"

Luke 23:33-43

Nothing says the end of the church liturgical year like this scripture reading. This visceral reminder that the world with all its frailties put Jesus to death on a cross. The mocking words of the soldiers, "He saved others, let him save himself..." and "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself."

On this Christ the King Sunday, it is almost strange to even think of earthly kings. There are very few around today and the ones we do have are often figure-heads, like the King of England, with lots of power in the tradition of the throne, but very little real power in terms of governing the people.  So, we don't even know what to make of a phrase like Christ the King.

So, it is better, perhaps, to focus on the acts that happen in this text. Jesus being nailed to a cross and mocked as a King. Jesus being ridiculed for saving people, but choosing not to save himself. What kind of King is he, if he allows himself to be crucified?

Today we give thanks for selfless acts of salvation.  Jesus who became the Christ in his selfless act of salvation, by choosing to not allow the rule of a governing body to affect his loving ministry to people in need.  And, in all of our holy and sacred everyday moments, we, too have salvation stories to share.

I have heard a few of your stories.  Stories of one who performed the Heimlich maneuver and saved a grandson's life, of a newlywed husband who saved his drowning bride, of parents who pull their adult children out of harm's way in abusive relationships, of out-of-body near death experiences where somehow, someway the body managed to save itself.  Amazing stuff. Powerful testimony of that instinct we all have to save each other and save ourselves in moments of crisis.

I have to think that Jesus, the fully human side of Jesus, wanted to save himself, and yet the loving, far-reaching visionary Jesus, wanted to save us more.  Jesus could see that giving in to the laws and rules of a short-sighted society would not lead anywhere, but choosing to pour God's love and compassion onto the world, no matter the consequences might indeed be life-saving for even him.

If it feels like Resurrection, like Easter, it is. The last day of the liturgical calendar is Easter all over again. To remind us why we will begin to wait with earnest for the baby in the manger next week. To remind us why it is important for that Child to come over and over again.  To remind us THAT salvation story begins not on a cross, but with a mother's obedient answer to God's call.

What salvation stories can you share?  Why are these important in our culture?  Email me or comment below.