“O KING OF THE NATIONS” (DECEMBER 22)- A REFLECTION ON THE GREAT “O” ANTIPHONS FOR THE SECOND PART OF ADVENT

Today’s supplication to Christ at Mass and at Vespers goes thus:

“O King whom all the peoples desire, you are the cornerstone which makes all one. O come and save man, whom you made from clay”

Dear friends, throughout Scripture, the kingship of the Lord is a recurring theme celebrated with reverence and awe. The psalmists proclaim, “The Lord is King; He is robed in majesty” (cf. Psalm 93:1) and declare that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it” (cf. Psalm 24:1). This divine kingship is not bound by human constructs but is rooted in God’s sovereignty over all creation. The prophets build on this vision, announcing the advent of the One who will be called “Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (cf. Isaiah 9:6). His kingdom is established on the foundation of justice and righteousness, bringing true peace that transcends human understanding.

Christ, the King of the Nations, fulfils these prophecies not through temporal power or earthly conquest but by taking on our human frailty in the mystery of the Incarnation. As He stood before Pilate, Jesus declared, “My kingdom is not of this world” (cf. John 18:36), affirming the divine nature of His reign, which is marked by humility, service, and sacrificial love. Through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection, He opened the gates of His eternal kingdom to all who believe, transforming our human weakness into a means of grace and making us “partakers of the divine nature” (cf. 2 Peter 1:4).

This King, born in a humble manger, reigns over the hearts of all nations and peoples. His rule unites humanity in a peace that the world cannot give, as St. Paul reminds us: “He is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down in His flesh the dividing wall of hostility” (cf. Ephesians 2:14). His kingship is not imposed by force but lovingly embraced by those who open their hearts to Him, allowing His justice, mercy, and love to transform their lives.

As we reflect on the antiphon “O King of the Nations,” let us recognize Christ as the true King who calls us to a higher allegiance. He invites us to live as citizens of His heavenly kingdom, where justice reigns, peace abounds, and love triumphs. May we surrender to His rule and allow Him to reign in our hearts, guiding us toward the eternal life He has promised.