Yesterday, the Lord granted me the privilege of observing seismic historical changes in the Cayman Islands. The country celebrated the adoption of its new
constitution, replete with new authority, new political positions, and some continuity with previous ties to England. The constitution modernization process also included a Bill of Rights, identifying 19 basic human rights for people in the Cayman Islands.
Yesterday's celebration was a long time in the making. The constitution modernization process took a LOT of time, with a LOT of people, thinking through a LOT of issues. The democratic process was at its messy best with multiple public hearings, negotiations with England, public debate between various stakeholders, including voices secular and religious. Along the way, there were "make or break" issues that threatened one side or another. But in the end, the Constitution was approved by a huge margin in the Country's first-ever public referendum. Free democracy fueled by an enlightened citizenry produced another happy result in the cause of just rule.
Writing or editing a constitution for a country is
arduous and at time precarious in any county. But I was struck at the clash of ideals that often occurred in this process. Ideas have consequences and one could see that as issues like marriage and public education were discussed.
As I sat among the crowd yesterday, I caught sight of a number of my colleagues in ministry here. Some of them played herculean roles in this process, giving biblical and prophetic witness during many discussions. What a blessing to know these men and to live in a country that seeks the blessing of God and the input of pastors.
The first ever Premier, Deputy Premier, and Deputy Governor were sworn in during the service. As an American, I'm still a bit allergic to referring to Queens and her appointees with titles like "Her/his majesty." Kinda puts the taste of tea in my mouth. But there was a majesty about the day. One official donned powdered wig and robe. His Majesty the Governor, appointed by the Queen of England, inspected the ceremonial guard who shouldered arms, paraded, and saluted at all the appropriate times. And at times, the Premier's speech cast high and lofty vision in common and accessible language. There was a brass band, the national choir, and tons of people assembled on this historic day. We witnessed something of the peaceful transition of power and the day-one inauguration of a new era of legal and governmental authority.
Throughout the day's ceremony, many thanks were given to God. Pastor Alson Ebanks prayed the invocation and did so with keen and clear meditation on the Lordship of Christ. It was great. The Premier gave honor to God throughout his remarks... even if he gave a bit too much honor to himself. He's a politician after all. The national choir sang "the Hallelujah Chorus," and a quartet led in a song that very much celebrated "the victory of the Lamb." The ACLU would have wet its pants, and already a case would be making its way to the Supreme Court.
But with all the pomp and circumstance, I'm most thankful for how I was left longing for the coronation of Christ the True King and Only Majesty, Potentate of potentates, Lord of Glory! What a coronation it will be when the King Eternal consummates His reign and puts death under His feet. What a processional of angels and saints marching up to Zion! And, oh! how the heavenly choir will sing and the harps play! Redeemed Premiers and Governors and High Officials will bow with martyrs and missionaries and housewives and all creation to give all praise and honor to the Lamb who is worthy! On that day, the pomp will match the circumstance and the circumstance will be the transformation of all creation into a showcase of Jesus' unveiled glory!
Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Yesterday we celebrate Remembrance Day in the Cayman Islands. Remembrance Day commemorates the courage and sacrifice of those fallen in war. 
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