Some thoughts at this time of national mourning

Rosie, Johnny and I got back from our visit to South America yesterday morning, picking up the news of the Queen's death when we landed in Spain and before our flight to London. 

Even though we know something will happen sooner or later it always comes as a shock when it finally does, and it doesn't make the feelings of sadness and loss any the less. But in the case of our queen, what a life well lived!  Queen Elizabeth lived a life for which we can truly give thanks - someone who used her power and influence as a tool for humble service and did so throughout her life and all our lives. 

Something I believe added extraordinary gravitas to her reign was her faith. Though Queen, she recognised that she herself was under greater authority - that of a Servant King who was prepared to lay aside his majesty and give his life for others. I was always struck by the way she would refer to this king in the speeches she gave to the nation every Christmas day. She would speak of her Lord Jesus and what following him meant to her in a way that was natural and inclusive, even to those who didn't share her faith or followed a different faith. 

Her death is also a reminder that no matter how long something or someone is with us, the day will come when we must eventually say goodbye. Seasons change; chapters come to a close; new chapters begin; the old gives way to the new - and this will always feel a little strange at first. Yet our unchanging God who is our strength and refuge remains constant in it all. 

On the news last night some of the ex-Prime Ministers spoke of their one-to-one meetings with Her Majesty. I like to think of her now in a one-to-one with our Lord Jesus, finally meeting her servant king face to face and enjoying his presence just as so many on this earth enjoyed hers (and I think he too would find her remarkably well informed just as everyone else did!).  

Tomorrow we will begin both our services (9.15 and 11am) with a moment to pause and give thanks for the life of our Queen, to pray for Charles our new king, and then to sing what was her favourite hymn, Praise my Soul the King of Heaven. Do come and worship with us if you are able. 

Every blessing,

Patrick.