Like most Americans, I find the idea of England having a queen to be a bit odd. Having a king or queen (that is more of a figurehead with little to no actual ruling power) seems more or a traditional ideal rather than a necessity in this era. I have always found the etiquette that surrounds Queen Elizabeth to be a bit much, in my opinion. For example, you are always expected to curtsy or bow (with your head only) when coming into her presence. It is a well-known fact you are not to speak with the queen unless she initiates conversation with you. If she feels a conversation has gone too long, she has been known to switch her purse from one arm to another signaling to her staff she is ready to move on and they should help her with such. Visitors are always expected to be early to any gathering. She should never be left to wait for your arrival. You’re expected to wait for her arrival. Etiquette states that you should abstain from touching her to assist or hug her unless she initiates such. If sharing a meal with the queen, she will always begin a conversation with the person to her left and then switch to the person on her right when moving to the next course. When meeting with the queen as part of a group you will be ushered by her staff into a semi-circle to be greeted as this is what she prefers. Unofficial photography is not permitted so, no selfies with the queen are allowed. In a way, we have this same type of requirement here in the United States when meeting our President, though the expectations are not as strict or as rigorous.
As I was learning the etiquette and requirements listed above, I was reminded that I don’t have to do those things when approaching my King. Though I’ve never met Him physically face-to-face, I know He’s there. I’ve sensed His presence. He’s always there when I need Him. He is the King of all Kings and the Lord of all Lords. His schedule is always open to me and I’ve never been forced to make an appointment to bring my needs before Him. As a matter of fact, Hebrews 4:16 (NLT) tells me, “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” While I long to fall at His feet and worship Him, He doesn’t require that I follow a long set of rules before making my needs known to Him. I came come BOLDLY before Him at any time and I know He’s just as interested in spending time with me as I am with Him.
Closing remarks and encouragement: When was the last time you went before God? I dare say you didn’t have to wait in a long line to meet with Him either. He’s always available. But are you only coming before Him when you need something or are you doing so to simply spend time with Him. I encourage you to spend quality time with Him today! It will change your life and your view of the things happening around you.
Have a blessed week, my friends!