An acquaintance of mine, Fr. Tim Ferguson, penned this poem about the supremacy of Christ over all state and political actors throughout human history. This weekend, as we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, reflect often on this poem and keep in the back of your mind Christ’s consoling words as recounted in John’s Gospel: I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world (16:33).
I have seen the crowds hail Caesar, and then call for Caesar’s head.
Praise the great king’s coronation, then drag his family from their bed.
I have watched as empires crumble, and successor states collapse;
Seen petty politicians draw and then redraw the maps.
I have watched as enslaved peoples throw their chains off to be free,
Then themselves become oppressors in their newfound liberty.
The crowds who danced with jubilation, as they victor’s triumph led;
Soon cry out for revolution, for rebellion, or for bread.
Through the centuries, I linger, as the nations rise and fall,
Sometimes favored, sometimes harried, sometimes large, but often small.
My allegiance never wavers, it is Thee, of whom I sing:
Thou alone are my True Master, Christ my Savior, Christ my King.
Praised be Jesus Christ! Now and forever. Amen.
David J. Conrad
I have seen the crowds hail Caesar, and then call for Caesar’s head.
Praise the great king’s coronation, then drag his family from their bed.
I have watched as empires crumble, and successor states collapse;
Seen petty politicians draw and then redraw the maps.
I have watched as enslaved peoples throw their chains off to be free,
Then themselves become oppressors in their newfound liberty.
The crowds who danced with jubilation, as they victor’s triumph led;
Soon cry out for revolution, for rebellion, or for bread.
Through the centuries, I linger, as the nations rise and fall,
Sometimes favored, sometimes harried, sometimes large, but often small.
My allegiance never wavers, it is Thee, of whom I sing:
Thou alone are my True Master, Christ my Savior, Christ my King.
Praised be Jesus Christ! Now and forever. Amen.
David J. Conrad
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