June 25

I will raise up for them a plant of renown.-Ezekiel 34:29.

CHRIST is often presented to us in a metaphorical manner by the prophets. Hence earth, and seas, and skies, have been the subjects of research, to set forth the glories of the Redeemer's person, and the infinite importance of his work. The figure employed by Ezekiel, is that of a plant, a plant raised up of distinguished renown. Isaiah when referring to Jesus, observes, "And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots." And Jeremiah also says, "Behold the days come saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous branch, and a king shall reign and prosper." Now the metaphor of a plant seems to convey to us an idea of the lowly appearance of Jesus. He is not described as a lofty cedar, but as a lowly tender plant. "He shall grow up as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground." And this was accomplished to the very letter — his parentage, birthplace, his appearance, occupation, and his retinue all accorded with that humiliating prophecy. But, the figure also seems to denote the hidden or unrevealed character of Christ. The chief part of a plant is concealed, hidden from the eye of observation under ground.

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Now in the humble form which Jesus assumed, was concealed all the glories of the Godhead. He appeared as a mere man, the subject of poverty, and of human scorn, was accounted as nothing before men, yet the uncreated and majestic attributes of Deity all belonged to him. In the lowly tabernacle of his flesh, dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. How differently did Jesus appear to God, angels and men. Jehovah viewed him with infinite complacency and love. Angels gladly descended and left their glorious seats to minister to him as their glorious Lord. While to men he appeared to have no inviting form, or attractive comeliness, they saw no beauty in him, that he should be desired.