Introduction
Her Majesty the Queen’s record-breaking tenure on the throne is seen by some as 63 years of self-sacrifice and dedication to her country. Meanwhile, the four Labour MPs vying for the leadership of Her Majesty’s Opposition have made similar commitments to get their party back into government. And as politicians in Europe struggle to end the hardships of the so-called migrants languishing in camps, railway stations and on the streets, some journalists are also reporting the sacrifices made by those now seeking refuge in Europe. In today’s reading, Jesus has a lot to say about bearing the cross and then wearing the crown, both for himself and his followers.
Context
- Her Majesty the Queen becomes Britain’s longest reigning monarch.
- Prime Minister David Cameron and his EU partners continue to grapple with the ongoing ‘migrant crisis’.
- Labour members to decide who will be their next leader later this week.
- There has been a sharp rise in hate crimes against Muslims.
Reflection
This week sees Her Majesty the Queen become our longest reigning monarch. Writing in the Daily Telegraph, the journalist Allison Pearson described the Queen as a 'still point in a tumultuous world', while the BBC Royal Correspondent, Nicholas Witchell, called her a ‘constant amid gale-force changes’. Although virtually every aspect of the Queen’s life has been scrutinised by an eager media and ardent royalists, most people know very little about her. While we are cognisant of her religious beliefs and her love of all-things equine, constitutional convention means that we know very little of her thinking on political, social, cultural or economic issues. (Some would argue that this has helped her steer clear of any real controversy.)
Contrast this with politicians, whose remit is to have an opinion on almost everything. This has certainly been the situation with the contenders for the Labour leadership. No topic seems off limits as they jockey for the votes that will see them become party leader. Unlike the Queen, these politicians have not been silent on the ongoing ‘migrant crisis’, and have put forward a range of solutions to this appalling scenario.
When commentators discuss the Queen’s time on the throne, the terms ‘sacrifice’ and ‘giving’ are invariably mentioned. It is said that she has had to sideline a life-time’s worth of personal ambition, as well as her own family’s needs, in favour of her royal duties. In a similar way, politicians are expected to sacrifice a lot once they assume public office – their private lives, as well as their policies, face scrutiny. This was one of the reasons why the former front-runner for the Labour leadership, Chuka Umunna MP, dropped out of the race.
In today’s scripture verses, we read about another monarch discussing the issue of sacrifice and suffering with his ‘subjects’, namely the disciples. The first aspect of their conversation revolves around who Jesus is, and it ends with a clear declaration of his messianic credentials. The second part of their discussion sees Jesus characterised as the suffering servant, the one who carries a cross before wearing a crown. The third and last portion of scripture is for Jesus’ followers, who are expected to take the hard road travelled by their master.
Not unlike certain perceptions of the Queen, Jesus offers a sense of permanence in times of turbulence and transformation. Jesus is the ‘rock of ages’, the ‘anchor’ and ‘strong tower’ on whom we can draw strength, support and inspiration at all times, especially during adversity. And while it is still feasible to say that, despite her 63 years in the public eye, our current monarch remains an enigma to most, it is possible for everyone to know Jesus on a personal level – and that there can be an immediacy to that intimacy. Moreover, like most politicians, Jesus had a lot to say about the society in which he lived. However, he was never frightened of speaking truth to power, and one could argue that he would probably be the purveyor of uncomfortable truths to some of Europe’s politicians over their response to the desperate plight of the fleeing men, women and children – who are made in God’s image – but are often depersonalised as a ‘flood of migrants’.
Jesus led by example; he never promised that the Christian life would be easy, just that he would be with us, especially when the going gets tough. And while there will be a reward at the end – a crown – we must first carry the cross of self-denial.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
we thank you for the life of your son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
and that we worship a Saviour whose example of leadership
placed the needs of others before his own.
In our hurting world, help us to follow his example,
when we engage with the last, the least and the lost.
This we ask in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Questions
- Is ‘sacrifice’ a vital component of good leadership?
- Do the traits of Christian/non-Christian leadership really differ?
Action
In groups, ask the congregation to make a list of ‘great’ leaders. Ask them to outline what made or makes these men or women outstanding leaders. Ask them if any of their lesser-known foibles reduce their standing.
Young People
Prime Minister, David Cameron has now said that the UK will accept up to 20,000 people from camps surrounding Syria over the next five years, with priority given to vulnerable children. Find ways that your congregation can offer practical assistance to meet the many unmet needs of these new arrivals.
Richard Reddie is a writer and researcher. His most recent book, ‘From an Acorn to an Oak Tree’ chronicles the first 50 years of the New Testament Assembly Church in the UK. He is also a warden at St James Church (CofE) West Streatham, London.
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