Christ, the True King of this World – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the kingship of Jesus Christ through heartfelt anecdotes and theological insights, and recounts a powerful encounter with a couple, Tom and Mary, whose lives were marked by profound challenges.

Mary, a devout Christian, resisted pressure to abort her child despite medical advice, trusting God’s will. Her faith was rewarded with the birth of a healthy son, now a firefighter. Later, the couple adopted a daughter, Kelsey, who endured a turbulent upbringing but ultimately found redemption through love, discipline, and faith. These stories illustrate the transformative power of God’s love and how recognizing Christ’s kingship brings healing and purpose amid trials.

Christ’s kingship is rooted in love, truth, and surrender to God’s will, as exemplified in Tom’s journey. Initially resistant to faith, Tom experienced a dramatic conversion, realizing God’s sovereignty during a moment of desperation. Through the challenges of parenting a wayward child, he grew in humility and reliance on God, recognizing his role as an instrument of divine love.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Faith in God’s Will Amid Trials
   
   How does Mary’s unwavering trust in God’s plan challenge you to rely on His will, especially in moments of uncertainty?


2. Surrendering Control to Christ
   
   In what areas of your life do you struggle to let go of control and allow Christ to guide your decisions?


3. The Power of Parental Love
   
   How can Tom and Mary’s example of unconditional love for their children inspire your own approach to nurturing and guiding others?


4. Recognizing Christ’s Kingship
   
   What does it mean for you personally to acknowledge Jesus as the King of your heart and daily life?


5. Learning from Conversion Stories
   
   How does Tom’s journey of transformation encourage you to reflect on God’s patience and transformative love in your own life?


6. Living the Our Father Prayer
   
   In what ways can you deepen your commitment to the phrase “Thy kingdom come” through acts of love and surrender?


7. Embracing God’s Timing
   
   How can you cultivate patience and trust in God’s perfect timing when facing injustices or unanswered prayers?


8. Daily Renewal in Faith
   
   What steps can you take each day to extend Christ’s kingship over your thoughts, actions, and choices?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton.  Msgr. Esseff served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta.    He continues to offer direction and retreats for the sisters of the Missionaries of Charity around the world.  Msgr. Esseff encountered St.  Padre Pio,  who would become a spiritual father to him.  He has lived in areas around the world,  serving in the Pontifical missions, a Catholic organization established by Pope St. John Paul II to bring the Good News to the world, especially to the poor.  Msgr. Esseff assisted the founders of the Institute for Priestly Formation and continues to serve as a spiritual director for the Institute.  He continues to serve as a retreat leader and director to bishops, priests and sisters and seminarians, and other religious leaders around the world.  

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