Only God is Great

Illustration – Only God is Great

Ascending to the throne of France at the age of four to rule for the next seventy-two years, Louis XIV enjoyed the longest reign in modern European history. Intoxicated with his own power, this self-consumed emperor called himself the “Great Monarch” and declared, “I am the State!” But in 1715, King Louis XIV like all other rulers abdicated his throne to death.

His funeral, just as he had prescribed, was nothing short of spectacular as the great cathedral was packed with mourners to pay final tribute to their King in his solid gold coffin. To dramatize the deceased ruler’s greatness, a solitary candle burned above his jewel-laden casket. Thousands waited in silence, gazing at the solitary flame.

At the appointed time the funeral service began. Bishop Massillon, who presided over the state funeral, stood to address the mourners, which included the assembled clergy of France. When the Bishop arose, he did something that stunned the nation. Bending down from the pulpit, he extinguished the lone candle that represented the greatness of King Louis XIV. The people gasped. Then from the darkness echoed four gripping words, “Only God is Great!”

Psalm 8 declares the greatness of God. Regardless of man’s inflated view of himself, God stands alone in His glorious splendor. He alone is Creator, Sustainer, Redeemer, and the soon coming King of the Ages.