Christ the King Sunday brings to mind images of royalty and power, strength and might. But our lessons point to a different kind of ruler. Jesus offers mercy and hope to a dying criminal. In Colossians we are reminded that through Christ everything on and in heaven has been reconciled to God. Even Jeremiah's harsh words of judgement lead to the promise of a Righteous Branch who will guide God's people. This is the promise of Christ the King--the promised day when God's realm truly will come upon the earth as it is in heaven.