The world celebrates England’s royal birth
On Eagle’s Wings
The wait is finally over. The world can let out a collective sigh of relief.
For weeks, reporters were camped out in London, awaiting the announcement that Kate Middleton, the wife of Prince William, had given birth. Millions of people waited in eager anticipation. Thousands of couples reportedly held off naming their own children, wanting to find out what the royal couple would name theirs. But on July 22, the official announcement was made that George Alexander Louis, also known as Prince George of Cambridge, entered the world weighing in at 8 pounds, 6 ounces. Prince George is third in line to the throne of England, after his grandfather, Prince Charles, and father, Prince William.
England’s royal family has been reduced to more or less figurehead status, with no real authority. The duties of this young prince will likely be little more than ceremonial, whether he ultimately ascends the throne of England or not. Yet it’s hard to remember a birth more eagerly anticipated, more widely reported, and more universally celebrated than his.
Prince George’s birth stands in stark contrast to another royal birth. This one took place a little over 2,000 years ago. When Jesus was born, there were no reporters standing by, no paparazzi stalking, no crowds cheering the announcement. There wasn’t even a hospital room for the expectant mother to give birth in, but a stable, where only a handful of third-shift shepherds came to visit.
Prince George’s birth stands in stark contrast to another royal birth. This one took place a little over 2,000 years ago.
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Yet this royal baby was destined to do far more than carry out ceremonial duties and pose for photos. His immediate duties included suffering and dying on a cross. He was and is the King of kings. His rule extends to the ends of the earth. And one day, when he returns, every knee will bow before him, and every tongue will acknowledge his kingship.
As the months and years go by, you can be sure that we will see and hear lots more about Prince George. Reporters will breathlessly tell the world about his first steps, his first day of kindergarten, and every other important (and not-so-important) event in his life. Sadly, the good news about the royal baby who was born in Bethlehem two millennia ago will not receive the same coverage. Instead of the media, God has given this job to us. He has told those who believe and trust in the baby of Bethlehem to be his witnesses to the world, spreading the news to everyone. May we never tire of doing that.
Brent Merten is pastor of Mountain Valley Lutheran Church, 802 Brush Creek Terrace, Eagle.
