A Solemn Celebration

“She died peacefully.” came the early announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing over my car radio on Sept 8 (our eldest daughter’s birthday) as I headed out that afternoon to do some shopping.  I mentioned the news to three cashiers at different stores and was intrigued with their similar responses. They were grateful to hear about what just had happened since they were working and reacted with a respectful solemnity.  I’m sure you will always remember what you were doing on that eventful day.     

The following days in this month have been full of stories and reflections about her Majesty’s famous life.  I particularly appreciated listening to a podcast produced by the Canadian Bible Society on the Life and Faith of Queen Elizabeth II (Scripture Untangled – Season 2, Episode 1) which affirmed to me her strong faith in God and His Son, Jesus Christ.  A commentator at her funeral described it as a “solemn celebration” that was amazingly watched worldwide.  Peoples all over were deeply in awe of this poised, powerful, prayer-led woman and her wise rule with phenomenal stamina.

Even though God mightily used this monarch for 70 years, there is no comparison to her life and that of His Son and His death, burial and resurrection for our sakes.  His disciple Peter solemnly reported in 2 Peter 1:16, “…we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” And then Jesus “… sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” (Hebrews 1:3)

We are very grateful for some good things happening this month in Scott Lockhart’s life.  His health is improving and so he is sleeping much better.  His younger brother, Matt, obtained a part-time job for a church in Oakville plus another job taking school photos. He has been able to get himself a car. The two of them have rented a 3-bedroom basement apartment in Milton. Scott has a lead on a job in one field of home improvement.  Regarding Hillside Church, we did not get approval to meet at Kelsey’s Restaurant and so our church launch date has been postponed again until we can find a location.  Scott is pursuing other possibilities.  It is a great encouragement that God is answering some of our prayers and yours.

We look forward to the day when Jesus Christ will return to earth. As His followers, we will be able to reign forever with Him, our Lord and King.  No solemn celebration there but overwhelming rejoicing because all our sorrowful tears will be wiped away according to the last book of the Bible!

Happy early Thanksgiving.  Gary & I are very grateful.  How about you?

Wendy   

Wendy.carter@kainos.org