Gospel (Luke 23:35-43). Christ reigned from the cross, and brought salvation to one of the thieves crucified with him. David had already been anointed King of Judah by his own people at Hebron. Now we hear how the northern tribes also acknowledge him as their king (First Reading). Thus David became king of a united country. His kingship prefigured the universal kingship of Christ. The Second Reading is essentially a liturgical hymn in praise of Christ. The first part speaks of his role in creation; the second of his role in redemption. On this feast we acclaim Christ as head of the Church and ruler of the universe. In the Gospel we see how the inscription over the cross, and all those who witnessed the crucifixion (the crowd, the rulers, the soldiers, and the thieves) unwittingly proclaim the true identity of Jesus. The irony is that the titles which are pronounced in mockery are true: Jesus is both Messiah and King.