The Prophet Daniel envisioned a figure like a Son of Man coming on the clouds, presenting Himself to the Father. This imagery signifies divine origins, as people in this culture associated control of the weather or riding on clouds as attributes of divine beings. This Son of Man received ultimate dominion, ensuring all peoples and nations would serve Him as a divine King with an eternal kingdom.
Although Daniel was unaware, Jesus is the fulfillment of this prophecy. He is the divine Messiah, descending from heaven and crowned as the eternal King. As the psalmist declares, the Lord is robed in majesty, and Jesus shares in this Lordship. Revelation also describes Jesus coming amid the clouds, echoing Daniel’s vision at the end of time.
The Majesty of Christ
The psalmist beautifully describes the majesty of the Lord, saying, "The Lord is robed in majesty." This imagery is fitting for Jesus, who shares in the Lordship with the Father. Revelation further describes Jesus coming on the clouds, much like Daniel's vision, at the end of time. This return will be a moment of great significance, as Jesus will come to judge the living and the dead, and His kingdom will have no end.
A Servant King
Jesus exercised His dominion differently from earthly kings. He did not come to rule with an iron fist but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. Jesus' kingship is characterized by humility, love, and sacrifice. He washed the feet of His disciples, healed the sick, and taught about the kingdom of God. His ultimate act of love was His sacrificial death on the cross, where He bore the sins of the world and reconciled us to God.
The Church's Mission
The Church is the seed of Jesus' kingdom on earth. It is tasked with proclaiming the truth of His kingship and spreading the Gospel to all nations. The Church is on a pilgrimage, journeying towards the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom at the end of time. During this journey, the Church is called to be a beacon of light, sharing the love of Christ and inviting all to come to know Him.
The Return of Christ
At the end of time, Jesus' glory will be fully revealed, and His kingship will be recognized by all. This moment will be a culmination of God's plan for humanity, where justice, peace, and love will reign. The faithful will be gathered into His kingdom, and every tear will be wiped away. This hope gives the Church the strength to endure and persevere, knowing that Christ will return and make all things new.
Baptism into the Kingship of Christ
Each member of the Church is baptized into the kingship of Christ. We are called to serve as kings with dominion over ourselves, rejecting sin and embracing love. But, like Christ, our kingship is one of service—to God and to our neighbors. We must embody the love and humility of Jesus, dedicating ourselves to the well-being and salvation of all God's children.
In summary, Daniel's vision points to the glorious reality of Jesus' kingship. He is the divine Messiah who came to save us and will return to establish His eternal kingdom. As we await His return, the Church continues to proclaim His kingship and live out His teachings, embodying the love and grace of our servant King. Through our baptism, we share in His kingship, serving others and glorifying God in all we do.
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