On Monday, 27 November 2018 the Kensington Palace made an announcement that Prince Harry, who is fifth in line to the throne, is to marry American actress Meghan Markle in May 2018 at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Ms Markle came to notoriety playing the character as Rachel Zain in the hit American series Suits. What makes this forthcoming marriage so unique, is that she is firstly a divorcee and secondly she is of a dual heritage, with her mother being African American and her father being White American. Never before, in the history of British monarchy has there been such a combination which would be heir to the throne.
The announcement of their marriage was largely met with much jubilance and celebration both at home and across the seas. The irony of such a union comes with a backdrop of a political strain between the British Government under Theresa May and the Political Presidency led by Donald Trump. Regardless of the dividing camps relating to this marriage, the fact remains that the image we have is of two people deeply in love, and who have transcended the racial barriers even to the level of royalty.
It is agreed, that Meghan Markle a Protestant, is to be baptised into the Church of England, and take on British citizenship after passing the necessary exams that will qualify her into the position of a British citizen (albeit, with an American accent) and fully eligible to be married to Royalty.
Over the coming years, her life will be prone to examinations, scrutiny, critique and criticism; her privacy will be invaded and eroded. However, these all come with the position.
Queen Elizabeth I said, “There is one thing higher than Royalty: and that is religion, which causes us to leave the world, and seek God.“
As Christians, we know that our lives face daily scrutiny by both believers and non-believers alike. Scripture tells us that when Jesus was on earth he had his accusers waiting for him to say something so they may accuse him. Luke 11:54. We know we are not perfect, but we have an advocate with our Father, who is Jesus.
As Meghan and Harry make plans for their future together, let us pray that they will both serve their country, but also submit to the King of Kings. We pray for a beautiful and peaceful future for them both.
