The Solemnity of Christ the King

Doesn't it seem strange that we close out the Liturgical Year with the same Gospel that we hear on Good Friday? Here we have the soldiers jeering at Jesus while He's on the cross, and even one of the thieves beside Him gives Him a hard time. But then, the thief on the other side asks for His mercy and we see his faith. 
Where was the crowd? 
Why didn't anyone say anything? Not one person could stand up for Him? How many times are we like the crowd and don't say anything? How many times do we laugh at jokes when Jesus or the Church is the subject? Why are we so afraid???  Why can't we speak up for Him?
One was brave enough to speak up and show Jesus his faith; his reward was to be with Jesus. That should be our ultimate goal, too. So what if we defend Jesus or the Church and are ridiculed because of it? I think we'll learn who are real friends are; even if it's family members who are doing the ridiculing. 
Is it an ending, or a beginning? 
Maybe it's not so strange that this was the Gospel today. We're beginning a new year in the church next week. For the next 4 weeks, we will be anticipating the Birth of Jesus. We'll declare our faith and prepare our hearts for Christmas, much like Dismas declared his faith while on the cross next to Jesus.
This morning, the deacon asked what kind of crown would be fit for Jesus? Everything about Jesus is in the Crown of Thorns. Life is painful. During Baptism, we are anointed as priest, prophet, and king. Are we worthy enough to wear a crown of thorns?
Jesus, Remember Me
We sang this song as the Meditation Song (right after Communion); the flutes alternated playing and not playing each time. It was so very moving; I actually had chills at one point.  Such a simple, short song...but, oh, how powerful.