Royalty as a Parable of Discipleship

As I watched Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin being transported from Balmoral to Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland and listened to the British commentators describing her life and sharing memories, I heard several things that to me represent a parable of God’s kingdom. One commentator mentioned that most people did not know the Queen’s views on many issues. She portrayed duty. Her duty was not to herself but to the monarchy, to the people, and to God.

This reminded me of Christ’s instruction to us to deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow Him. Paul stated, “nevertheless, not I, but Christ who lives in me.” As we believe in Him and enter into covenant with Him, our duty is shifted to the work of His kingdom.

As each of the Queen’s children and grandchildren married, the new members of the family had to learn the duties and expectations of royalty. Becoming royal happens overnight but the behavior is learned. The women and men marrying into the family from outside must learn the proper behaviors expected of them. They all had to be discipled in the new life or discipline of representing the monarch. The women, especially, had to learn how to sit, stand, walk, and dress to properly represent their role in the family. There is even a different way of holding a teacup than a coffee cup. Many things are expected of those in the royal family. Much duty comes with the privilege of leading others and it should not be taken lightly.

Vignettes of the Queen

The Queen was a Christian and took her faith very seriously. Each of the stories below from her life has a parallel to the kingdom of God.

Paul instructed the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitated Christ. I think Queen Elizabeth would be pleased if her life could serve in some way as a reminder of how we can live our lives for Christ.

---

One of the stories told was of one of the Queen’s trips to Australia. She was not well liked by some; during the motorcade, several men mooned the Queen. The commentator explained that she knew that disrespect from some in the commonwealth was to be expected and to be disliked by some was part of the job. She took this incident, as always, in stride, smiling and waving her royal gloved hand.

We as the Bride of Christ must do the same thing. We have a duty to God and man. To whom much is given, much is required.

Jesus told us that we will be hated because they hated Him first. He also told us to turn the other cheek and pray for those who despitefully use us.

Jesus also said, if you reject Me, you are rejecting the One Who sent Me—the Father. So it is true that if others reject us in our confession of faith, they are really rejecting Him. It is not about us. We are to live our lives for Him. Our complete devotion is due to our God and King, not fearing what others will think, say, or do to us.

---

Another story occurred following the death of her father, King George VI. One of her attendants, the morning after the Queen’s father had died, gave her a hug and suddenly realized she was hugging the Queen. She immediately stepped back and curtsied.

This story hopefully has a bit more obvious parallel. One day (hopefully soon) every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Just as her attendant suddenly realized that Elizabeth was no longer a princess but she was the Queen, on that day, even those who never knew Him as Lord of lords and King of kings will instantly know who He is–King Jesus.

---

I read that all members of the royal family when traveling must carry a black outfit in case the unthinkable happens. Princess Elizabeth was out of the country when her father King George VI died. She had not taken clothes fit for mourning with her. When she landed in London, a black dress was brought to her on the plane for her to change into before disembarking.

The last story exemplifies the admonition to be ready in season and out of season as well as to be ever watchful for His return.

Our Role in God’s Kingdom

Most of us have never been to England or met the royal family. Still, we know that they are expected to carry themselves in a way to be respectful of and represent well the monarchy and the royal family of Windsor as well as the people.

Our lives should be a proper witness of the heavenly family to which we belong.

Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.

1 Corintians 4:2 ESVA

The Queen is dead. Long live the King!
May her memory be for a blessing.
Condolences to the House of Windsor.