Center for Creative Ministry A research organization and research center for Seventh-day Adventist pastors and their congregations
The Lord Reigns
King Charles III stirs up controversy once again, this time with a brand new official portrait.
Framed copies will be displayed in public institutions such as courts, schools, and government offices, much to the chagrin of anti-monarchy critics. CNN cites that those who take issue with the extravagant wealth of the monarchy condone the portraiture tradition as a waste of $10.1 million.
The United Kingdom’s Cabinet Office counters that the photograph will “reflect the new era in our history.”
Yet, despite this powerful, visual display introducing a new era for the United Kingdom, King Charles III’s reign is heavily steeped in tradition.
One such tradition includes maintaining international diplomacy with other monarchies. To ensure further cooperation between the two nations, he penned a letter to Denmark’s king and queen.
Another tradition includes working closely with the Church of England. Known as ‘Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England’ – a title dating back to 1521 – King Charles III proclaimed at his coronation the oath to “maintain and preserve inviolably the settlement of the Church of England, and the doctrine worship, discipline, and government thereof, as by law established in England.” One way in which he fulfills this promise is by appointing archbishops, bishops, and deans of the Church of England who swear allegiance to him.
Speaking of allegiance, King Charles III oversees the Commonwealth of Nations which is comprised of 14 realms and 56 independent countries.
From religious matters to international relations, his hand stretches far and wide. And yet his power pales in comparison to that of the kings and emperors of centuries past.
Is the British monarchy outdated, useless, and desperately clinging to seemingly vast yet steadily dwindling power?
Only one King is equipped to maintain an eternal reign more powerful and far-reaching than any other. As King of Creation, Judge of humanity, Victor over death, Offeror of Salvation and Head of the true church, Jesus Christ reigns as Lord over all (Psalm 93:1).
For Reflection
Connecting: What tone do you use with God during your prayer time? Can you address God as your Sovereign while simultaneously speaking to the Lord as your friend?
Sharing: The writers of the Psalms encourage us to rejoice while awaiting the Lord’s divine and righteous judgments. How can we do that despite knowing all of us will need to answer for our sins?
- Those covered in the blood of Christ have the assurance of forgiveness
- Answering for sins won’t compare to the glory which will be later revealed
- We must forgive ourselves as God first forgave us, then joy and praise will flow forth easily
- We just need to stop sinning
- I’m unsure
- Other:
Applying: Prayerfully brainstorm how to explain the kingdom of God to someone who does not yet know God.
Valuing: How do you draw the balance between yearning to see Christian values expressed in government while simultaneously vying for the separation of church and state?
~ Stefani Leeper
Flu, RSV, and COVID variants want to make their home in your body! Are you ready to fight them off?
During this year’s winter, we encourage you to stay warm, hydrated, nourished, avoid excess sugars, get a full night’s sleep every night, and carry hand sanitizer.
We pray you stay well and have a happy, healthy winter season.
PS: While you’re fighting the cold weather and sipping at a tasty hot beverage, Center for Creative Ministry would LOVE to be your indoor companion. Not only will we provide you uplifting resources such as iFollow and Amazing Transformations in Christ, but we also provide spiritual food like Sharing Scripture, and denomination-related reports and statistics.
To continue doing all this, we rely on your feedback, moral support, prayers, and prayerfully-made donations. Contributing to our year-end fundraiser tells us that you appreciate what we’re doing and have ideas of how we can grow together. We’re so eager to continue that journey with you.
Would you consider voicing your support by submitting a one-time donation via PayPal @C4CreativeMinistry (https://paypal.me/
You could also mail a check to:
Center for Creative Ministry
Box 573
Milton-Freewater, OR 97862
Your donations ensure that your ministry continues both in your hands and the hands of thousands of others.
Thank you!
Your Center for Creative Ministry Team
The Center for Creative Ministry is fully recognized by the North American Division (NAD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church; it is also a 501c3 nonprofit organization which makes donations tax deductible in the U.S.
