Seeing Jesus: The Lion and The Lamb

I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, with seven horns and with seven eyes. Rev 5:6

A lion is admirable for its ferocious strength and imperial appearance. A lamb is admirable for its meekness and servant-like provision of wool... But even more admirable is a lion-like lamb and a lamb-like lion.

The Lion of Judah conquered because he was willing to act the part of the lamb. He came into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday like a king on the way to the throne, and he went out of Jerusalem on Good Friday like a lamb on the way to slaughter.

This glorious conjunction shines all the brighter because it corresponds perfectly with out personal weariness and longing for greatness. We are weak, yet we dream of doing wonders. We are transient, but eternity is written in our hearts.

May the power of the Lion and the love of the Lamb make our faith in Christ unshakable. So deliver us from small dreams and timid ventures and halting plans. Embolden us. Strengthen us. Make us love with fierce and humble love. Let us share the confidence of the Lion of Judah that gave him the will to die like a Lamb and rise in everlasting joy. Amen!!

from John Piper, "Seeing and Savoring Jesus Christ".