Crown Him, Crown Her

It is hard for Americans to see a crown the way first century people did. We haven’t had a king since 1776, and our experience of absolute power makes us think of villains like Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin.

Today, if you saw a crown it would perhaps be in a museum or a beauty pageant or margarine commercial (if you go back that far!) In history, crowns have conveyed the status of the monarch as he or she wore it.

In the Book of Revelation, Jesus is described in chapter 19 as having on his head many crowns. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords – all powerful and altogether good. Earlier in this exciting book Jesus offers reassurance to the Christians in Smyrna. In Revelation 2:10, he tells his followers not to be afraid, they will be tested and they are to be faithful.

Think of what you are going through right now. Let the promise of Jesus take away your fear. Much better things are coming. The Lord says, “Be faithful, even to the point of death and I will give you the crown of life.”

Jesus has a crown for you that will never fade or perish. You have standing and status in the household of God as an heir of the King. The Lord loves you and He will help you to be faithful, and He will reward you in the end.

Crown him, crown her.

Christopher

The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton

Rector