This week we watched as dignitaries, Heads of States, Prime Ministers, Presidents and the common people helped Queen Elizabeth II celebrate her 90th birthday. Truly a memorable occasion and a significant milestone for Her Majesty as she also is now the longest serving Royal in history.
It is interesting as we recollect the Queens 21st birthday speech in which she makes a commitment to serve and she stated, ‘I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong’. Although a very general statement, these days, many 21 year olds think of having fun and living life as opposed to commitment and responsibilities.
On the same day as the Queen celebrated her birthday and 64th year as Queen, music icon and legend Prince had Collapsed in the lift and later pronounced dead at his home in Minnesota USA. Although Prince, (real name Prince Rogers Nelson) was on tour, he was reportedly unwell with flu, rescheduling a couple of tour dates. The cause of death is unknown and is under Police investigation.
Prince, a multi-instrumentalist, who played up to 27 instruments, unlike Queen Elizabeth, was brought up in adverse poverty and used music as a means of escape. The internationally acclaimed singer, whose songs included The Most Beautiful Girl In The World and Purple Rain, allegedly told his fans ‘just wait a few days before saying your prayers’, after they had heard about him being unwell.
Part of the commemorations for the Queens birthday celebrations, was a portrait featuring four generations of the Queen and her three heirs to the throne.
The Bible, in the book of Genesis, gives details of various patriarchs that lived to almost 1000 years including Adam who lived to the ripe old age of 930 (although we don’t know when he was born) and was blessed to live to see eight of his generations born to him.
Although many are blessed with long life, and for those of us who remain, tomorrow is uncertain, one thing is certain is death. The Bible has very little to say about Methusaleh, however it celebrates his longevity, living to the age of 969 years and he died. Read Genesis 5.
Both the Queen and Prince found their purpose in life ~ the Queen continues to reign and Prince has left behind his music for his fans to enjoy. Today use what we have, as tomorrow is not promised. So, whether we live for long or short, may we find and fulfil our purpose. To God be the glory!