The Lamb of God and the Lion of Judah

Dear Friends in Christ,

I always remember that when I was in grade school, my teachers would decorate their bulletin board for March by putting up pictures of a lion and a lamb. They were communicating the old adage of March coming in like a lion and going out like a lamb. However, I also know from history that sometimes it has been the very opposite of that, and March has come in like a lamb and gone out like a lion, and sometimes it has come in the same way that it has gone out.
No matter what the weather might be, both the lion and the lamb are symbols of Christ. In the book of Revelation, Jesus is referred to as the Lion of Judah, and as the Lamb who sits on the throne. So, how can Jesus be both Lion and Lamb? Really it depends on who Jesus is facing, or with whom Jesus is dealing.

When Jesus is facing His enemies, and dealing with them, then He is a ferocious Lion, Who destroys His enemies, just like He is depicted the “The Chronicles of Narnia” series of books, written by Christian author C.S. Lewis. But when He is facing us believers, then it is the opposite. Then He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He is the sacrificial Lamb, who gave His life as a ransom for many. He is the gentle King, who sits upon His throne, ruling with mercy, grace, and righteousness.

His enemies and the powers of evil and darkness should greatly fear Him. He is crouching, ready to pounce, but unfortunately many do not take Him seriously until it is too late. However, for us Christians, we should find great comfort and peace knowing that our King is both kind and gentle, as well as powerful and victorious.

During the month of March, during the Lenten season, we will see Jesus depicted in both ways in the Word that we hear. On Wednesdays and on Sundays, Jesus will be the sacrificial Lamb, and at the same time, doing the same things, He will be the conquering Lion of Judah, defeating His enemies by carrying out God’s plan for our salvation. May these symbolic images remain in the back of our minds as we prepare spiritually during March and Lent for the Lamb of God’s victory celebration on Easter morning!

In Christ’s amazing love,

Pastor Paul Pett