A Palace, A King, and a Higher Calling

How could we come to London and not visit Buckingham Palace?

Carl and I joined the long line of eager visitors, shoulder to shoulder with people from all over the world. There was a sense of anticipation in the air -- a shared understanding that we were about to witness something grand.

The gates, the guards, the gold, the history -- it all speaks of royalty, tradition, and honor.

And yet, I couldn’t help but smile at the irony.

Here we were -- standing outside the palace of a king and queen, while King Charles III and Queen Camilla were across the ocean in the United States. It seems even royalty travels.

But isn’t that just like life?

We chase after moments, places, and people we think will fill us -- only to find that what we’re truly longing for isn’t found behind palace gates.

Oh, the beauty of Buckingham Palace is undeniable. The architecture is stunning. The pageantry is precise. The crowds are captivated -- and yes, Carl and I were right there with them, taking it all in like wide-eyed Texans in a city steeped in history.

But as magnificent as it is -- it’s still just a residence.

Because there is a King -- the King of Kings -- who is never absent. Never traveling. Never unavailable. His throne isn’t guarded by gates or long lines. His presence isn’t reserved for a select few.
He is near. Always. No ticket required. No waiting in line.

And as I stood there, taking in all the pomp and circumstance, my heart gently shifted. What if the same awe we feel for earthly royalty could be turned toward our Heavenly King?

What if we stood in wonder -- not just at palaces made by human hands -- but at the love, grace, and mercy extended to us daily?

Oh that our world would come together -- not just in diplomacy or headlines -- but in humility -- in love -- in turning our hearts toward the One who reigns forever.
Now that -- is a kingdom worth standing in line for. AND, our KING is always near!

#londonmoments #KingOfKings #FaithJourney