Especially in view of what the Church in Malta has been experiencing during the last months, next Sunday’s Solemnity of Christ the King should help believers ponder deeper the ‘regal’ power of Jesus as a power of love which knows how to draw good from evil, to soften hardened hearts, to bring peace to the harshest conflict, to enkindle hope in the murkiest darkness.

I believe it is good to note that Pope Francis sees the Kingdom of God growing every day thanks to those who witness without making any “noise”, praying and living their faith in the family, at work, in communities.

In the silence of a home, where there may only be 50c left until the end of the month, but where there is always prayer, care for children and grandparents, the Pope sees the Kingdom of God.

Far from the noise of the crowd, because the Kingdom of God “does not attract attention” in the same way a seed that grows underground does not attract attention.

“The Kingdom of God is humble, like the seed: humble but it becomes great by the power of the Holy Spirit.

It is up to us to let it grow in us, without boasting about it: let the Spirit come, change our soul and carry us forward in silence, in peace, in tranquility, in closeness to God, to others, in worship of God, without spectacle,” said Pope Francis during last year’s Christ the King celebration.

Meanwhile, let us not forget that God’s is also a Kingdom of Grace and therefore never imposes itself and always respects our freedom.

Christ came “to testify to the truth”. This makes it necessary for each conscience to make a choice on whom to follow. Opting for Christ does not guarantee success according to the criteria of the world.

However, it does ensure the peace and joy that only God can give.