July 19

The Sun of Righteousness. Malachi 4:2.

THE sun is one of the most striking images by which the glory of the Saviour can possibly be represented. Indeed, it is one of the most sublime of all the creatures of God. It seems to possess the highest place in the material world, being the centre and ruling monarch of the whole. Now, Jesus, of whom the sun is so beautifully an emblem, has a pre-eminence over all creatures and over all worlds. Other intelligences may be high and lofty, but he is the most high. His nature is infinitely above theirs: his name is above every name: and his throne is in the highest heaven, even the heaven of heavens. He is the centre of the universe — the exalted monarch, whose sceptre is swayed over all worlds. The sun also is the great source of light: Christ is truly the light of the world: whatever is termed the instinct of animals by which they are regulated, and answer the end for which they were created, is communicated from him: the light of reason and intelligence which distinguishes and elevates man in the scale of being, is imparted by him: the truths of revelation are the emanations of his glorious mind: the spiritual light which chases away the darkness of moral night from the mind, and introduces the day of grace into the soul, is communicated from him alone. The light of heaven, the resplendent glory of the celestial temple, is entirely derived from him. "The city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it; for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof." (Rev. i. 23.) How glorious is Jesus, when thus considered. Without him, universal chaos and darkness would reign. Earth and heaven, men and angels, alike depend upon his bright and irradiating beams.

"In darkest shades if he appear,

My dawning is begun:

He is my soul's bright morning star,

And he my rising sun!"