The Love of a King

by Bethany Johnson

"For God is my King from of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth." - Ps. 74:12

     What is one way I could describe a Thai? He loves the King. Every single Thai has one thing in common. Love of their king. Their devotion to him is unrivaled with anything I have ever heard or seen. They will tell anyone who asks about how great their king is and all the wonderful things he has done for them. He has gone out of the cities into the poorer provinces to build better roads and bridges. He has founded schools and universities, and increased the production in the agricultural areas. All the while, he upholds a high religious standard. His face is on every monetary bill and coin. Everywhere you look you see his face. It doesn’t matter if you are in a taxi, a grocery store, or a home, you will always see at least one picture of him. Before every major event (ie...movies, concerts, any type of ceremony) the King’s anthem is played and all stand in silence and respect. It is against the law to disrespect his image or to slander his name in any way. It was when I first saw the deep love the Thais have for their king that I felt like I understood who they were as a group of people.

     Seeing all of this heartfelt devotion has made me squirm in my seat a little. Shouldn’t my devotion to God be as strong and as predominant in my life as the devotion the Thai people have to their earthly king? As a Christian I serve The King. He has created all things. He desires that we include Him in every aspect of our lives. So much so that He sent His son into our messy world to live among us. He set the perfect example for us through His life. Through His grace and mercy He built us a bridge over the gap between our sins and eternal salvation. He gave us His Word and the Holy Spirit to teach us and guide us. He has provided everything we need. He pours His blessings on us – His people, His children. What does He ask of me? Complete devotion and obedience to Him in all things, and for me to tell all who will hear what an awesome King I serve. How many times do I hear someone mocking my King’s name and say nothing? How many times do I keep silent when I should tell of His glory? How often do I follow my own reasoning instead of listening to His voice? The answer? Too often. Getting to understand this part of the culture here has reminded me of who I am and who I need to become. My prayer is that my love and devotion is such that people will not be able to know me without knowing my King. I am a Christian. I love the King of Kings!