England has seen some pretty royal kings. Some of the more notable ones are:
King Richard I (1157-1199)—Called “The Lionheart” and reportedly “the bravest among brave.” He was said to have “the ferocity of a gladiator and the cruelty of a tyrant.”
King Henry I (1068-1135)—Invaded and conquered Normandy.
King Henry II (1133-1189)—Mastered the whole western coast of France and conquered the island of Ireland.
King Edward I (1239-1307)—Conquered Wales.
King Alfred the Great (849-901)—Defeated the Danes by building England’s navy into a superpower.
King William I (1027-1081)—Affectionately called “The Conqueror.” Brought down numerous revolts in his own land mercilessly devastating miles of land and countless villages.
King Alexander I (of Scotland) (1107-1124)—Called “The Fierce” for his triumph over several insurrections.
These were men of valor, men of might, men who showed no fear while looking fear square in the face. They ruled with an iron fist and a golden scepter. They were honored, respected, and feared. They were kings.
But not one of them gave up his throne to dwell with the peasants. Not one traveled by foot with no place to sleep. Not one doffed his crown and royal robe to take the humble role of a servant. And not one of those mighty kings willingly gave his life for those who deserved it least. No, they were men of pride, not humility. Men of power, not meekness. Men who scoffed at death, not willing to embrace it.
But there was one king who was different. One king that gave up the majesty and privilege of the throne, rejected the adoration that was rightfully his, laid aside his crown of gold and picked up a crown of thorns. He was not a king of violence and plunder, but rather of peace, love, and mercy. In fact, he loved his people so much he gave his life for them, even those who had revolted and sought to overthrow him. And this king conquered the one thing no other king could ever defeat—death itself. He proved himself the mightiest of kings, indeed, the King of kings. And one day every knee will bow before him in humble adoration. His name? King Jesus.
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