“The Word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes.” John 1:14
For most of my life I have been intrigued with the British monarchy. So, the death of Queen Elizabeth has captured my attention. As a child living in a Commonwealth nation in Africa, I saw the Queen pass by in her royal motorcade. With our children, we happened to be in London the day the Queen was opening Parliament. Surprised and in awe, we were on the right street where few had gathered, and we saw with our own eyes the royal wave as the Queen’s carriage passed by.
With her riches, castles, and sovereign living, her neighborhood is not like ours. Popping in for tea or a walk in the dog park with her corgis is not something we commoners can experience. But Queen Elizabeth did cherish and follow One who became ordinary for her sake and ours.
The dear friend of Jesus, John, wrote about the King of Creation, the King Most High, becoming one of us and moving into the neighborhood. No castle with the flag announcing his presence, no carriage, no riches. But John, along with so many others, saw with their own eyes the glory of God.
Today, this moment, we can sit in the presence with our God. Our Savior and Lord. Our Holy Spirit. With awe and intimacy, with confession and gratitude, we can take in the truth that our God lives with us. The invitation for time with Him is always open.
Intimacy with our King also moves us to go into our neighborhoods with His love and welcome. Invite someone to have tea or a dog walk with you this week.