| The Royal Couple! |
I woke at 6am, feeling about two days late in getting a spot in the action since thousands had been camping out to claim their places. But somehow I managed to find a spot along the procession route that gave me the best view I could have imagined!!!
From 8am-2pm, I stood meeting people from all over the world who had come to take part in the celebration and we saw EVERYONE! The thrill of being that close to the Queen of England, a woman who comes from a line like Queen Elizabeth, was surreal! That much history is hard to fathom and I felt a little taste of it.
Once the ceremony began, the wedding was broadcast over huge speakers so that the massive crowd could be apart of it. Over the masses we heard them take their vows, and a huge cheer erupted after Kate said "I do." The sound of a million people cheering could be heard inside the Abbey! But by the far the most lasting moment of this unique experience for me was when James Middleton, Kate's brother, delivered a reading of Romans 12 in the wedding. After each sentence of the reading, he paused to let it take effect. His voice echoed over the completely hushed crowds -
I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God,
to present your bodies as a living sacrifice,
holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
Do not be conformed to this world,
but be transformed by the renewing of your minds,
so that you may discern what is the will of God,
what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good;
love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour.
Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly;
do not claim to be wiser than you are.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.
If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
| Outside of Westminster Abbey |
Imagine hearing these words over a crowd of nearly silent million, followed by a chill-inducing choir performance. It was an awe-inspiring moment that will stick with me forever.
I made friends with Canadians, British, Thais, Irish, and Scottish people in just a little 4 foot area around me. This type of occasion is something that unites continents with a sense of global hope and optimism that we so easily lose in our day to day lives. For me personally, I've spent this past week practicing seven hours a day and concentrating solely on this competition. But being out among a million people in this type of historical moment really opened up my mind and gave me perspective again - and, so much inspiration!!!
Thank you so much for this "girl on the street" perspective. I agree...the scripture reading was heartfelt as was the entire service. What a gift from God to be present at this moment in history! I pray Great Britain will return to its roots...the love of God and obedience to His Word. The whole day
ReplyDeletewas a glorious praise to Him! AND...pinch yourself!!!... YOU were there! Thank you for
sharing it with us! love you!