On April 30th in the Netherlands, a king was crowned for the first time in 123 years. The last one was Willem III, who was replaced by Queen Emma in 1890, Wilhelmina in 1898, Juliana in 1948, and Beatrix in 1980. After 33 years, she abdicated, and her oldest son, Willem Alexander took over and became the king.

We were visiting the Netherlands when all this took place on April 30th. There were great festivities; there were flags out everywhere; there were games for children, parades, concerts, and sailing events. The Queen officially abdicated, and the new King was sworn in. All the activities were shown on television all day long.

Many dignitaries were invited. Most, if not all of the kings and queens in waiting of other European kingdoms were there, as well as representatives of other countries from around the world, including the Governor-General of Canada. It was a festive day indeed.

Then on May 2nd, there was an article in the paper about the succession to the throne as it is now. Queen Beatrix's sister, Princess Margriet, who was born in Canada during the Second World War, was, at one time, high on that royal list, but now, she was replaced by the present king's three daughters as well as his brothers and their children. Princess Margriet is eighth in line to the throne, and her grandchildren have no royal status at all now.

In contrast, I love the story in Acts 10 where, in a vision, Peter was shown the equality of all people, while he was resting on the flat roof of the house of Simon the tanner in Joppa. Cornelius, a Roman officer, had had an angelic visitation, in which he was told to summon Peter. When Peter arrived, he gave a wonderful introductory speech:

Acts 10:28a,34-36 – You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with a Gentile or visit him. I now realize how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. (NIV)

That made me think of the Royal Family that we belong to, as members of the kingdom of God. There is no loss of succession to the royal throne of King Jesus by any of us. That is the wonderful truth of the good news of the Bible. In God's eyes, we are all equal, and we do not lose our place.

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, we thank You that through faith, we can all be part of Your Royal Family. Amen.

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About the author:

Joel Jongkind <austria67@bmts.com>
Meaford, Ontario, Canada
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