Roger's Remarks
Not long ago, I read about a young seeker from Michael Tournier's novel, "The Four Wise Men." He describes the journey of Prince Taor, who was recently deposed from the throne of his native land. When he encounters the infant Jesus at Bethlehem, the young prince himself was reduced to rags, and he longs for the day when he can retake the kingdom that is rightfully his. He resents his current condition, and he dreams of a future time when the power and authority of his birthright will be restored.
His perspective changes, however, when he beholds the Christ Child. When posed the question, "What has Bethlehem taught you about power?" Prince Taor responds, “The example of the crib... taught me the strength of weakness, the irresistible gentleness of the non-violent, the law of forgiveness.. . In view of all of this, I laid the gold coin struck of the effigy of my father King Theodenos at the child’s feet. It was my only treasure, my only proof that I was the legal heir to the throne of Palmyra. In relinquishing it, I renounced the kingdom into which I was born to search for the other Kingdom promised to me by my Savior.”
I believe if Jesus could have been able to communicate to Prince Taor, he would have commended him for his faith and understanding. He would have told him, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God.”
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for reminding our souls that, through faith, we are NEVER far from your Kingdom.
1 Thessalonians 5:28,
Pastor Roger