It was thrilling to me just to catch a glimpse of the extravagant affair of all the pomp and glitter of the evening of June 30th. The date marked the relinquishment of Great Britain's one hundred and fifty six year rule over Hong Kong. There was excitement in the air as the British Union Jack flag was lowered at sunset. Precisely one minute later, the red and gold flag of the People's Republic of China was raised in its place. Later, Prince Charles and Governor Chris Patten boarded a ship and sailed out of the harbor, symbolizing the change in rule.

All through the day, interviews were made as people lined the streets to see the 500 Chinese soldiers marching into Hong Kong. These would be followed by 4,000 more in just a few hours. Some were glad and hopeful, that finally, after so many years of shame, Hong Kong was now once again under the rule of the people of China. Others were fearful of censorship, of not having the same success and freedoms which were allowed under British rule.

Isn't it great to know that we don't have to wonder about the One that rules us as Christians. When we lived for ourselves, dictated by our own desires and passions, fear and hopelessness reigned in our hearts. Now, with Christ on the throne of our hearts, being born again into the kingdom of the Son of His love, our lives are characterized by faith, hope and love.

What a joy it is to know that our lives are governed no longer by us, nor by the whims of some foreign power or dictator, but by the loving hand of He who is the Kings of kings and Lord of lords.

God help us to realize the importance of His rule in our lives and the freedoms that are ours because He is in control. Paul says that now since we "have been set free from sin" we become servants of God, "the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life." (Romans 6:22).

Who's ruling your life today? Who's really in charge? Aren't you glad that God has brought a change of rule to your life! That's something really worth celebrating about isn't it! That's what our assemblies are all about! "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."