The dignity of Christ

Wednesday March 16, 2022

The dignity of Christ

Worthy art thou to take the book, and to open its seals ; for you were slain, and by your blood you redeemed for God men from every tribe, from every tongue, from every people, and from every nation. Revelation 5:9

A famous preacher always started the day on Sunday by reading all of Revelation chapter 5. This reading placed him in the presence of Christ, the Lamb of God, on whom all the counsels of God rest. His thoughts refocused on the one who, in heaven, will be eternally adored by all.

The parchment rolled up and sealed with seven seals contains the judgments, described in the following chapters, which will befall the earth so that God can establish, through his Son, his reign over a purified earth. But who is worthy to open this book and break its seals ? An angel poses the question to the countless creatures gathered around the throne. Jean holds her breath, but no one shows up. He weeps profusely, sorry that no one is found worthy to open the book, or even look at it.

However, God knows the one who alone can present himself to take him in hand : Weep not - an elder announces to John - behold, the lion who is of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has overcome to open the book and his seven seals (v. 5). The lion is Christ, under whose feet God will place the whole earth (Psalm 72 ; Isaiah 11:1-10).

John raises his head to look at this lion and what does he see ? A lamb as if immolated ! He is no longer on the cross, nor in the tomb, but in the midst of the throne of God. Christ, the conquering lamb, is the only one worthy to execute judgments and the only one able to accomplish all the eternal counsels of God. Besides the marks of his sufferings, he possesses the divine attributes : the Lamb has seven horns symbolizing his omnipotence, seven eyes establishing his omniscience, seven spirits sent throughout the earth, emblems of his omnipresence.

When the Lamb takes the book, the whole huge assembly sings his praise. Each in his place and according to his understanding gives glory and honor to the Lamb: the redeemed of Jesus Christ, represented by the elders, sing him for his work ; the angels recognize his dignity and all creatures pay him homage.

May at the end of the year our love be centered on the Lamb of God and remain there day after day during the year that will open tomorrow.

Source (Pleasing the Lord)