Long to Reign Over Us

This weekend the nation will be celebrating the ‘official’ 90th birthday of Her Majesty the Queen. Elizabeth II has been Queen for 64 years, making her this country’s longest serving monarch. She has made no secret of her Christian faith, which often comes to the fore in her Christmas messages. Her faith has inspired her to serve country and Commonwealth with remarkable consistency of character, “I know just how much I rely on my faith to guide me through the good times and the bad. Each day is a new beginning. I know that the only way to live my life is to try and do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God... I draw strength from the message of hope in the Christian gospel.”

Speaking in 2012, our Queen commended the Servant King, “God sent his only Son ‘to serve, not to be served’. He restored love and service to the centre of our lives in the person of Jesus Christ.” Jesus’ followers had been jostling for position, arguing amongst themselves as to who would be the greatest in the kingdom of God. The Lord told them that their attitude left something to be desired. In his kingdom greatness would not be measured in worldly status, but service, “whoever desires to be great among you, let him be your servant.”

Jesus himself exemplified that servant mindset, “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life a ransom for many.” He came not to get, but to give. Jesus was willing to give his own life to pay the price of sin that we may receive the gift of God’s forgiveness through faith in him.

Queen Elizabeth II has ruled over this land for many generations. Long may she continue to do so. But one day her reign will end, as is the way with all earthly rulers. The kingdom of Jesus will endure for ever and those who follow the Servant King can look forward to eternity in his presence. That is the message of hope in the Christian gospel. 

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