BANG! BANG!

Gun salutes ring out in London, England, and Edinburgh, Scotland. Why? Because Queen Elizabeth II made it to 70 years! Not 70 years of living. Seventy years of ruling. Elizabeth became Queen on February 6, 1952. Then, she was 25 years old. Now she is 95. This 70th anniversary is called the “Platinum Jubilee.”

In the last 1,200 years, Great Britain has had dozens of kings and queens. But most Brits alive today have known only one: Queen Elizabeth II. No one in England has ever served as monarch as long as she has. She ascended the throne (became Queen) unexpectedly when her father died at the age of 56. For her, February 6 means two things, one happy and one sad: She became Queen . . . and she lost her dad.

The Queen’s son Charles is next in line for the throne. But for now, the Queen remains on the job. On the day before the anniversary, she made an appearance at a tea party in her honor. Guests reported that her wit was sharp as ever, though she carried a cane and seemed a bit thinner than usual. Still, she stabbed a massive knife into a cake. She also promised to keep working.

God gives leaders to people for their good. Leadership is not easy—and representing a nation for 70 years shows incredible faithfulness. At 95, the Queen promised again to the people of Great Britain: “My life will always be devoted to your service.”

It’s cold in Britain right now. More Jubilee celebrations will come in sunny June. The festivities will include a military parade, neighborhood parties, and a competition to create a new dessert.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions. — 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Why? Leadership is not easy. God calls willing leaders to serve for the good of others.