Previously in this series of reflections when I have written a reflection on the theme of prayer I have either offered tips on prayer and praying or I have taken the words of a hymn and related my prayer to it.
As I write today, on the day before King Charles Coronation I have decided to focus my reflection on prayers for him as he formally takes up a role that he has been preparing for most of his life. He has been a king in waiting for so many years.
In recent years the Royal family have come in for a lot of criticism, particularly the senior members of the family and their struggles have been played out with the eyes of the world on them, following their every move, and under the scrutiny of the public. This only goes to show that like all families they are only human. Charles is a human King not a heavenly King, and as such he is flawed and imperfect like us.
“They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.” Revelation 17:14
As King Charles formally takes on the role of Monarch, he is facing many challenges as he takes the crown, not least the lack of support of many people who feel that the monarchy is outdated and not fit for purpose. I am not going to apologise for saying that I am a royalist, and I have found myself defending their position several times recently.
As we approach the King Coronation tomorrow, I pray for both our King and Queen and other members of the Royal Family. My prayer is based around the words of the National Anthem.
God save our gracious King,
long live our noble King,
God save the King!
Send him victorious,
happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us;
God save the King.
Thy choicest gifts in store,
on him be pleased to pour,
Long may he reign!
May he defend our laws,
and ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice;
God save the King!
And so, we pray for our King:
We come before you God, our Heavenly King,
King of all that is seen and unseen.
We bring before you our new earthly King - King Charles
And his Queen – Queen Camilla, and other members of the Royal Family.
He is our Head of State, protector of the faith,
In the privileged position as role model.
God help King Charles to take the opportunities he has before him,
to raise the profile of important issues that our country faces,
And be the catalyst for change where change is needed.
Give him a long, fulfilled, and successful reign,
However long that may be.
God protect him.
Almighty God of all, King of all Kings,
Our beginning, middle and end of everything in heaven as on earth,
Bestow on our earthly King all good gifts,
The gifts of wisdom, patience, understanding and love.
May he uphold the laws of this country and be a model that others will want to follow.
May he be happy and find peace in his life.
May his reign be long and fruitful, meaningful, and worthwhile.
And an example to us all, Amen
Kathy Shaw
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