King of the Castle

Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom… where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Luke 12:32-34

            Do you remember that little ditty, “I’m the king of the castle, and you’re the dirty rascal?” This little rhyme originated in 1651 when a Scottish officer named John Cockburn was defending his fortress, Hume Castle, from English invaders, led by Oliver Cromwell. He refused to surrender, sending them the following missive:

I, William of the Wastle

Am now in my castle;

And awe the dogs in the town,

Shan’t gar me gang down.

            Historians debate whether Cockburn made up this well-done rhyme or merely repeated a well-known rhyme. Either way, it failed. The walls were breached, and Cockburn and his men were forced out.

            This famous doggerel is now part of a game called ‘King of the Castle’ or ‘King of the Hill.’ The object is to get to the top of a mound, even if it means knocking other incumbents to the ground as you push your way to the top. The first one up is King of the Castle. The person who manages to stay there the longest is considered the winner.

Unfortunately, many are living like self-made kings of the castle, building their own little kingdoms here on earth. Their plans, goals, and motives are driven by an inner desire to succeed. To be King of the Hill. It’s no wonder they live life heavy-laden. Instead of building the Kingdom of God, their focus is on shoring up their brittle empire of one.

            God urges us to seek another, a better lifestyle by seeking first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). Seek His purpose in each day, His glory as our sole motive, His will as our top priority.

            Let me ask you an important question; what/who is your treasure? Your answer will reveal which kingdom/Kingdom you are building.