Dear Friends,
The “Queen of Country” and the “Queen of England.” One born into poverty and lived life as a “coal miner’s daughter.” The other born into privilege and lived life as King George VI’s daughter. One died in October of this year, the other died a month earlier.
Loretta Lynn and Queen Elizabeth. One represented the fears and frustrations of working-class rural women through her music. The other represented the people of a nation recovering from war and geopolitical change through her commitment to the monarchy.
Both experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows of personal tragedy, humiliation and disappointments. All on display for public commentary… including a faith that sustained them.
Queen Elizabeth, in her 70 years as queen, was known for her annual Christmas message to the nation. “For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace is an inspiration and an anchor in my life.” December 25, 2012
Loretta Lynn, in one of her later public performances, sang:
“This life isn’t fair, it seems, It’s filled with tears and broken dreams, There are no tears where I am bound, And I’ll be at peace when they lay me down.”
No matter our birthright, our public or private sins, our talents, our disappointments and failures, the birth of Jesus is God’s unparalleled act of love for every kind of us. Giving all of us who we most need… a Savior.
“For to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
May the joy of this reality be yours this Christmas.
~Wynn