If you were a King?

The author A.A. Milne wrote an intriguing poem called: If I were King? Although this poem is nothing like his famous Winnie the Pooh stories, it does pose and interesting question? 

"I often wish I were a King,

And then I could do anything.

If only I were King of Spain,
I'd take my hat off in the rain.

If only I were King of France,
I wouldn't brush my hair for aunts.

I think, if I were King of Greece,
I'd push things off the mantelpiece.

If I were King of Norroway,
I'd ask an elephant to stay.

If I were King of Babylon,
I'd leave my button gloves undone.

If I were King of Timbuctoo,
I'd think of lovely things to do.

If I were King of anything,
I'd tell the soldiers, "I'm the King!"

While we understand that his poem was created for a little fun, the last 2 lines make for interesting reading. Is it not true that the kind of Ruler (King or Queen) we are accustomed too, is the person who likes to make their authority known. Telling people, "I am the King!"

When we compare this behaviour with that of Jesus, we see a stark contrast in attitude. For most of his ministry Jesus spoke of a new kingdom, but he never bragged about his title. Even when he was questioned by Pilate, it seemed that Jesus was trying to get Pilate to see that this kingdom was very different. 

Matthew 6:33 - But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

"He is a king who fears nothing, he is a king who desires nothing!" - Seneca the Younger

Thought for today: Is Christ your King?

Living in grace

D3LM3

Christ the King

The last Sunday before Advent is usually marked as Christ the King Sunday. It is a significant occasion for believers as it draws our attention back to the Sovereignty of Jesus. In a time when leaders scramble for power and worldly leadership is often self-centered, we would do well to honour Christ as our King and Saviour. 

1 Timothy 1:17 - “To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

Revelation 19:6 - “On his robe and on his thigh, he has a name inscribed King of kings and Lord of lords.” 

Elizabeth Joy-Lawrence wrote: "We need Christ the King Sunday because we need to remember that our ultimate hope is not in any human being, but in Christ.”

      Thought: How could Christ the King Sunday change the way we live our daily lives?

      Living in grace

D3LM3

      

The end of the year - Christ the King Sunday

In the Christian calendar today (21st November) marks the last Sunday of the liturgical year. Today is known as Christ the King Sunday and it is a special reminder of our King, Jesus. Next Sunday marks the beginning of the season of Advent, which is our preparation for the arrival of the Messiah. 

I know that it can seem a little confusing, as the official end of the year is usually the 31st December, but I think it is a good way of reminding ourselves that we belong to a different kingdom. Jesus spoke about his kingdom often and it was his clear conviction that he came to establish a new reign and that his kingdom was not of this world.

As we journey towards the conclusion of this liturgical year perhaps it would be a good practise to ask ourselves what we are hoping for in the new season of Advent. Will Advent usher in the peace, hope, joy and love we all seek? Should we not turn again to Jesus Christ, the one who can make all our hopes a reality?

"Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” - John 18:36

Living in Grace

D3LM3