The Lord’s Throne Reveals His Authority
Today’s reading from Psalm 103:1–2, 11–12, 19–20 begins with a clear proclamation: “The Lord has established His throne in heaven.” (His authority is unmatched.) This truth anchors our faith. It teaches us that all things submit to His reign, both in heaven and on earth.
As faithful Catholics, we are called to respond: “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all my being, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” (Psalm 103:1–2) This is not just poetic praise. It is a command to live in gratitude and obedience.
We are urged to remember what God has done for us—His mercy, forgiveness, and love. Just as Psalms echo God’s constancy, so too must our souls echo thanksgiving each day.
God’s Kindness and Power Are Boundless
The psalmist continues: “For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is His kindness toward those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He put our transgressions from us.” (Psalm 103:11–12) God’s mercy is immeasurable for those who honor Him.
We are reminded again: “The Lord has established His throne in heaven.” Repetition in Scripture signals importance. His throne is not an idea—it is a divine reality that governs all creation, as seen also in the Kingdom of Heaven.
God’s Word assures us that His justice and mercy reign together. The Catechism confirms: “God’s almighty power is in no way arbitrary: ‘In God power, essence, will, intellect, wisdom, and justice are all identical.’” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 271)
The Lord Commands All Creation
The psalm declares: “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all. Bless the Lord, all you His angels, you mighty in strength, who do His bidding.” (Psalm 103:19–20) His sovereignty is not only spiritual—it encompasses angels, nature, and the cosmos.
Creation submits to God’s will. Angels, powerful and holy, serve Him in obedience. This points us toward the structure of the Church, which Christ left on earth to reflect His heavenly rule.
Today’s Alleluia reinforces this: “The Holy Spirit will teach you everything and remind you of all I told you.” (John 14:26) The Spirit, proceeding from the Father and the Son, continues to guide the Church to do the will of Him who reigns on the eternal throne.
The Church: Key to the Kingdom
Jesus affirms our way to heaven through His Church: “And I say unto you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I give you the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 16:18–19)
Through Peter and his successors, the Church remains the living sign of God’s throne on earth. In union with Scripture and Tradition, she alone possesses the authority to guide souls to salvation. The Catechism confirms: “The Church is the visible plan of God’s love for humanity.” (CCC 776)
Let us rejoice. We have not been left alone. The Church, safeguarded by the Spirit and founded by Christ, leads us to where “The Lord has established His throne in heaven.” To follow her is to follow the path to eternity.
