King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom paid a visit to America this past week. It was the first visit of a Royal English Monarch since Queen Elizabeth was invited by President George W. Bush in May of 2007. There were many notable moments from the afternoon tea with President Trump and first lady Melania, to the State Dinner, King Charles’ speech to a joint session of congress, the visit to New York city, and wrapping up in the state of Virginia, one of the original thirteen colonies. There were jabs made in jest of America’s independence from England about to celebrate 250 years, but heart-warming respect for the alliance both countries now share and have shared for over two hundred years. It was refreshing to see two heads of State and two powerful countries coming together in unity.
It is ironic for both countries that unity is missing within both the United Kingdom and the United States. The divide in the United States is far greater than in the UK, admitting I am writing from my experience as an American but it sure seems that way. Political theater has become just that in the United States, entertaining. It is said, ‘you can’t make this stuff up’ when the hypocrisy is ridiculously exposed. A case in point became known this week with a visit by a king. There have been countless rallies across America called ‘No Kings Rallies’ in opposition to President Trump. Half of America do not want a king, or a president they see as ruling as a king, but they welcomed a foreign king to their soil and honored him. In fact half of the joint session of congress stood and applauded King Charles with the man they accuse of being a king is in the same chamber. No, you can’t make this stuff up!
There is no problem with honoring King Charles III and Queen Camilla. It is the right thing to do. The manner and structure of government, although similar in some ways, is different between the two countries. The king of England serves as the Head of State performing constitutional duties and remains neutral in governing. His position ensures a well-functioned parliamentary democracy.
With all that said, what should a Christian’s perspective of kings and presidents look like? First, we are to pray for all in authority whether kings or presidents and second, there is only one king, King Jesus, who is coming back and not only for a visit but to rule the earth with peace and justice. In that day there will not be any ‘No Kings Rallies.’
Word for the Soul 