Although not unexpected, the death of H.M. Queen Elizabeth II in September this year was a shock to the whole world, and many of us felt a profound sense of grief on her passing. This grief was somewhat tempered however by a sense of gratitude that the world for so long had been inspired by a remarkable monarch. As the eulogies were sifted through, her many noteworthy characteristics were reiterated- including a deep sense of duty, modesty, intelligence, wit, compassion. Perhaps underscoring all of these was noted her Christian faith.
Dudley Delffs, in this slim but eloquent volume provides a compact history lesson of the circumstances surrounding the Queen’s ascension to the throne in 1952 and some of the important historical events during her reign. Queen Elizabeth II made no secret of her Christian faith and the importance she placed on it to guide her both personally and in her public commitments. Mr Delffs provides some background on some of the lesser-known affiliations which the Queen had with Christian organisations.
In ten chapters the author considers various aspects of the Queen’s life and how her faith resulted in actions- e.g., “Service and sacrifice: Showing Humility and Respect toward all People”; and “Comfort and Compassion: Mourning Life’s Losses by Consoling Others”. The Queen not only believed in Jesus Christ, her actions demonstrated that faith and love, and some personal anecdotes are included to support this.
This book was written prior to the Queen’s passing and as we enter into a new era with King Charles III it is interesting to look back and consider what has gone before, not just for the Royal Family but for us all. The Queen’s faith was central to her life and sustained her in the best and worst of times. So it can be for us all.
The Faith of Queen Elizabeth: The Poise, Grace and Quiet Strength Behind the Crown by Dudley Delffs Zondervan 2019
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