Writing from the Rectory - June 2023

The coronation weekend was a colourful occasion that gave us many reasons to congregate and celebrate. Comparisons between 1953 and 2023 could scarcely be avoided, from the grand imperial but distant and deferential occasion seen on the tiny black and white tv sets of 1953 to the more personal, inclusive event available on multimedia and in full colour.

Unless one was privileged enough to sit in the chancel of Westminster Abbey, ironically the best view was not with those fortunate enough to have a seat in the nave, but for us, at home on TV. Inevitably questions of privilege, monarchy and state arose. These concerns are by no means new. The ancient Israelites were unhappy with their system of governance, which was a collection of local judges, and the people envied nations with kings. Generally, chaos reigned in Israel with each doing what was right in their own eyes. Against God’s advice an age of monarchy was heralded by a tradition of anointing and crowning. There were mixed results and discontent quickly returned. With the arrival of Jesus, many hoped that the occupying Romans would be overthrown in a glorious revolution and liberation would ensue. Jesus was welcomed into Jerusalem as the anointed one yet within a week there were shouts of “not my king!”.

Instead of wielding power and oppression over one’s subjects, by contrast (and as we heard at this coronation), the Christian approach to leadership is not to be served but to serve. Jesus was political and revolutionary in declaring himself to reign over an eternal kingdom. The global and radical revolution he instigated was to change the hearts of individuals. Jesus understood that true freedom is only achieved by realising that we are all created equal, and in the image of God our maker.

Whatever system of governance we subscribe to none has endured like that begun by Jesus, who was born into poverty and knew rejection. His coronation was profoundly colourful and personal and in following him, we can know true freedom, justice, and peace.

I pray that you may know the peace of God, the fellowship of the Holy Spirit and the love of Christ.

Revd Andrew