Posture of a King

One of my favorite Disney movies is the Lion King. There are many life lessons found in this classic piece of cinema, but for now, I would like to examine the different perspectives of kingship. For the young lion cub Simba, it’s about control, doing what he wants, and having fun. While his uncle Scar is all about power, the ability to lord over others. Then there is Mufasa, who, at one point in the story, explains to his son the true purpose of a king – respecting all living creatures. Mufasa describes this balance as the circle of life, and its root is humility. A character trait his brother Scar lacks, along with Simba.
 
In a moment of reflection, there could be times we realize our posture is not one of humility but of control or seeking to gain a certain notoriety or power. In John’s gospel, we find a beautiful picture of the proper posture of a King, found in not only humility but also a clear understanding of identity (John 13:3). Our Lord, on the night of His betrayal, bent down before each of disciples and performed a servant’s duty (John 13:4-5). Jesus gave His followers an example of a true king (vv.12-16). Imagine King Jesus is looking up to disciples, not down, a servant – King who gave His life as a ransom for many (1 Timothy 2:5-6). In preparation for Easter, my friends seek ways to imitate the servant King and humbly follow His example (Mark 10:45).

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