Yes, you read that right, I said what does the King think about Meghan and Harry. The coverage and responses to an interview between Oprah and the Sussexes has saturated the media, followed swiftly by accusations, judgements and a resignation or two. You’ll no doubt have your own opinions, yet what does Jesus think about it all? I certainly don’t have insider information on what God thinks on this specific issue, but as we look at the Bible we see evidence of the way God feels, responds and hopes we will respond.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Romans 12:15
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way
Galatians 6:2
you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Before doing or saying anything we should show compassion. We don’t know the full story, but we know enough to respond. As Christians we can recognise the emotional and mental struggles shared and weep as we heard about the couple’s miscarriage.
I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. ‘I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
John 10:9-11
The next thing we can do for everyone and anyone who suffers or struggles is to hold out Jesus. In whatever way our lives have been marked so far, Jesus offers us life. Not only that but Jesus offers us the love and protection of a shepherd who is willing to give up his life for his sheep. It’s easy to observe people like Harry and Meghan, those we consider privileged or well off, to make assumptions and even covet their lives. Yet life to the full is not found through anyone no matter how successful or attractive their life may seem, but only through Jesus. He is the only way to have it all. So how do we do it? How do we live like Jesus? What does he want us to do?
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbour as yourself.”
Matthew 22:37-39
May the Lord help us to respond compassionately to what we see and hear, may we react differently to those around us. May our response reflect the heart of God, and in doing so may we point to the life Jesus offers to all.