Symbols of power such as kings and emperors are not always popular, for the world has suffered much because of abuses of power. Even though David was anointed king of Israel, the request by the Israelites for a king had been denounced earlier by Samuel as a sign of weakness and a lack of trust in God. But in Jesus we are presented with another image of power, the power of love. He is derided and ridiculed on the cross, for the sign above His head proclaiming him 'king of the Jews' seems like a cruel joke. The spectators see only a broken, blood-covered, dying man. It is love, however, that led Him to that cross. His willingness to die on behalf of humanity is seen as weakness by the world, but is the very source of His power. The cross is a witness that love and sacrifice for others are far more powerful and effective than violence and hatred.

The author of Colossians portrays Jesus the Christ as the reconciler of the entire universe, the one who holds the world together through the power of love.

Today, we are invited to take part in maintaining the divine unity of the world. By choosing love and service over negativity, division, and hatred we take part in God's grand plan for the world and all of humanity. God is the only true authority, and any legitimate power and influence that we have depends on the degree that we practice loving kindness towards others.