Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

Last weekend, the National Catholic Youth Conference took place with around 3,000 youth participants, including approximately 30 members from the Vietnamese Eucharistic Youth Movement. During the event, a high school senior shared his impactful story. The young man had a passion for football since childhood and aimed to become a professional player. He achieved significant success in high school as a varsity quarterback by his sophomore year, earning admiration from coaches and peers alike. Despite his popularity and athletic achievements, he remained devoted to his Catholic faith.

In his junior year, he became disillusioned with the coaching staff after overhearing them speak negatively about teammates behind their backs. This conflict led him to quit the team, citing a loss of trust in their support for the team. Though it was difficult due to his love for football, he felt this decision aligned with God's will.

This young man's choice exemplifies making Christ his King. Although football was central to his life, he prioritized truthfulness over personal passion because he believed Jesus always chose truth even at great personal cost.

Reflecting on Jesus' declaration of kingship in today's Gospel reveals that Jesus stood trial before Pontius Pilate rather than occupying an exalted throne as described in Revelation. Faced with rejection and suffering, Jesus could have recanted statements that upset leaders or apologized to ease tensions but chose not to do so. His steadfastness set an example for followers like the young football player who must make similar choices throughout life.

As this community marks the 25th anniversary of founding its Vietnamese Eucharistic Youth Movement celebration focuses on guiding youth towards listening to Jesus' voice while making righteous decisions—choices which may result in ridicule or suffering yet ultimately affirm one's faithfulness through adherence to Christ's teachings.

The message extends beyond youth; all individuals encounter temptations favoring personal satisfaction over worshipping Truth and Love embodied by Christ the King whose reign promises eventual glory if we remain faithful witnesses motivated not by self-gain but glorifying God.