The King and I

Monarchy hasn't been far from the news this week.  Between the death of the King of Tonga and HRH Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, it seems that Royalty is a significant part of current affairs.  In the same week, whilst reading through the Bible with a student, we came across a call to Timothy, a Biblical preacher not to be irreverant.  It got me thinking about the importance of reverence in our attitude and actions towards God.

Whilst musing this thought, I came across a clip from the late Sir Norman Wisdom, one of Britain's finest comedians of the last generation.  In it, he describes an audience in front of the Queen, where after performing, he turns to leave the stage, and his nerves get the better of him.  Without thinking, he turns his back on the Queen.  Suddenly, he remembers 'You're not supposed to turn your back on the Queen!', so beats a hasty retreat, but in the process of walking backwards trips up and smashes several on-stage vases.  Apparently, the Queen felt this was part of the show and so laughed along with Norman Wisdom.

A comical reminder from Sir Norman Wisdom of the reverence towards a member of Royalty.  In a similar vein, watching TV One's news coverage from Tonga, I was struck by Paul Hobbs' reporting in smart dress and saying it was out of respect and reverence for the Royal family.  Again, reverence is a right attitude to one in such a position.

As Christians, we believe that there is to be a reverence and rightful respect for God.  The approach to a King or Queen here on earth does not compare to the sense of awe and wonder we are to have towards the King of Kings.

However, another story from this week's news gave me a different perspective on the Kingship of Jesus.  As reported on One News tonight, HRH Queen Elizabeth II showed up uninvited at the wedding of an ordinary couple in Manchester, England.    The thought of Her Majesty at the wedding of ordinary people is incredible, and while she was only there briefly, she illustrates something of what God has done in Jesus.  The God of the whole Universe humbled Himself and became nothing, entering our world as a little baby and identifying with us - coming amongst us.

Our attitudes towards the King of Kings are to be rightfully respectful.  We should never enter His presence lightly.  However, He is the One who also chose to come amongst us, to make His presence with us.  The God, the King who demands reverence but demonstrates humility.