Read
“Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders.” – Revelation 5:1-6 NIV
Reflect
The Bible repeatedly uses lion and lamb language to describe the Messiah. One symbolizes strength and power. The other, innocence and sacrifice.
When Jesus touched down on earth, everyone wanted the lion. They wanted the Messiah who would take Rome by force, crush the oppressor, and establish a throne of power.
Instead, Jesus showed them something radical: He had the lion’s power, but He chose to lay it down. He gave them not the lion they demanded, but the lamb they desperately needed. They wanted a lion. He gave them a lamb.
They called him “meek,” which isn’t weakness. It’s what happens when you have the strength to bring down worlds, but the resolve to lay it down for the very people who hate you.
Here’s the test of true faith: it’s not the lion cloaked in the lamb’s clothing that reflects the heart of Jesus. It’s the lion willingly cloaked in the lamb’s sacrifice.
Have you ever thought about it in this way?
In what ways can you be a lion and follow Jesus example?
In what ways can you be a lamb and follow Jesus example?
Respond
Jesus is both lion and lamb. But He wins not by roaring louder than His enemies, but by laying down His life for them. Empire celebrates strength. The Kingdom celebrates sacrifice. We need to decide which story we’ll tell.
What story are you going to share in the face of the world around us?
Dig Deeper
Here is the video I shared on the morning:
Rewatch it and pay particular attention to footprints left behind by the sheep and Jesus; where will you leave your mark as you walk with Jesus?
