December 10, 2024
The Messenger - Part 2
Malachi 4:2-3
12/10/2024
2 But for you who fear my name, the sun of
righteousness shall rise with healing in its
wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from
the stall.
3 And you shall tread down the wicked, for they will
be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day
when I act, says the LORD of hosts. (ESV)
The message of the Old Testament prophets and the New
Testament apostles is consistent. Turn from your sin, turn from
your selfish desires, and look to your Creator. Stop trusting in
those things which perish, and hold firmly to the God who made
heaven and earth, who longs to redeem you from the condemnation
which is the just punishment of our transgressions.
Malachi, the messenger of God, spoke of the fate of the
arrogant and evildoers who will be destroyed. He also speaks of
the blessings for those who trust in God, who recognize that
Jesus Christ is their only hope for eternal life.
But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness
shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out
leaping like calves from the stall. And you shall
tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the
soles of your feet, on the day when I act, says the
LORD of hosts.
The ``sun of righteousness'' which Malachi promises is none
other than Jesus. Our Christmas hymn, ``Hark! The Herald Angel
Sings,'' uses this title for the infant. Even the Epiphany
season has the theme that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World,
the Light no darkness can overcome. Those who trust in God are
truly healed from the guilt of their sin, from the fear of
eternal death. They are freed from the condemnation of the Law,
redeemed by the blood of Christ. Even in the midst of trials
they find the joy of knowing God's presence, especially as we
hear His Word and partake of the Sacraments. We look forward to
the day when our Lord comes to restore His creation, to show
Himself as the Sun of Righteousness. Until that day, we call
upon Him in prayer, we praise His holy name, and give thanks for
His great mercy.
May you find comfort and hope in the words of God's
messenger. Amen.