Today is Christ the King Sunday. Our readings — particularly those from Colossians and Luke’s gospel — are all offering us images of Christ as our king. Like any good American, I have mixed feelings about monarchy. There is a romanticism about the monarchy. I love the stories of princes and princesses, kings and queens. While those make nice stories, when it comes down to it, I will also admit to a patriotism that can tend to a bit of self-aggrandizement. Remarkably, for over two centuries we have managed a peaceful transfer of power every few years between civilians who were frequently at opposite ends of the political spectrum. The liberty and freedoms we all enjoy, the fact that so many still seek to immigrate to this country, are a testament to the tremendous benefits of our democratic…