[This is one in a series of devotional reflections prepared for Horley Baptist Church during May 2023]
The subjects of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland are about to witness the coronation of a new monarch. Probably for most of the population this will be a new experience but there is a dwindling number of us for whom this is not the first such event.
Much has changed since the previous occasion in 1953. Most of the former empire no longer carries that designation and the Commonwealth that evolved from it has lost much of its former significance. Britain both lost and regained its sovereignty (for better or for worse) and now longer has the same level of influence in world affairs. There are threats to the unity of the kingdom itself and there are questions about the role of the monarchy in the twenty-first century.
Nevertheless, in general the British public enjoys a good excuse for a celebration; the vendors of royal souvenirs will enjoy a boost to their sales and street parties give people the chance to meet their neighbours, possibly for the first time.
It is somewhat ironic that at the time of the previous coronation the then Prime Minister was concerned about how the loss of a productive working day might impact on the nation’s economy; now, the boost to trade and tourism is regarded as a major benefit.
Did you receive an invitation from the king? Maybe it is still in the post. If it arrives in time, how will you respond? Will you be amazed that ‘the firm’ recognises you? Will you accept? Will you decline? Will you want to buy a new outfit? It is fairly certain that you would not ignore it or keep it a secret.
What about the invitation from the King of kings? He knows who you are and he is inviting you to the most significant royal event in history. Will you accept? Will you decline? Do you feel that you are not ready or that you will not be accepted?
‘Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labour on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; listen, that you may live. Isaiah 55 v1-3 [NIVUK]
Unlike the coronation, this invitation has no fixed date that can be marked in our calendar. For you, for each of us, the period of acceptance might terminate at any moment. This is an invitation like none other – will you keep it a secret?
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Contributed by Steve Humphreys; © the Author
A most appropriate reflection Steve. Thank you for the invitation that you incorporate, we can pray that people will respond in a positive way.