Day 13—Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Malachi 4:2

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.

Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament. It was written by the prophet Malachi sometime after 443 B.C. which in Roman history is noted as the year the office of censor was established. The book is relatively brief with only four chapters; however, these four chapters are very impactful and carry a penetrating meaning.

Chapter 4:2 is a call to have a healthy fear of the Lord and to trust in Him for our salvation. In other words, those who fear or revere (respect, admire, love greatly) His name will be saved. The “sun of righteousness” refers to the sun in the sky. The sun’s power to provide healing, joy, and energy is a metaphor for the spiritual blessings that Jesus Christ brings to us all. The sun’s ability to light up the world is a metaphor for Jesus’ ability to enlighten people spiritually. “Calves from the stall” relates to calves that are well cared for and safe, as is the Lord’s promise to protect and care for those of us who fear His name. As recipients of Christ’s light, Christians are called to reflect His light in their daily lives, demonstrating His love and truth through their actions and deeds.

I know I’m treading in rival territory, but a few years ago I attended (as I do most years) the UVA Spring Social at the Roanoke Country Club.  The guest speaker that evening was head basketball coach Tony Bennett, who for those unfamiliar with his character, is a true man of faith. I had heard him speak previously on several occasions, but it was something he said that evening that struck a special chord with me: “Let the light that shines within you be brighter than the light that shines on you.”  WOW!  He stated that over the years he shared this expression with his players to help keep them “grounded” and focused on life, as well as to assist them adhere to the five pillars that his basketball program was built atop: humility, passion, unity, servanthood and thankfulness.

My point is, I see this inner light shining brightly in so many people here at RCPC. You know who they are. Their Christian character is not only evident within the walls of RCPC but outside these walls as well.  Their inner light shines brightly within our community and extends to various parts of the globe. They seek no attention or recognition from others in the congregation or elsewhere. This is their normal mode of living!  Believe me, these are definitely people who fear and revere the name of the Lord. Even though I try, I know my inner light can often benefit from a little more wattage….how about yours?

Prayer: Father, we pray over each of our lives that we would have a healthy, holy, reverent fear of You. May we walk in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit whose shining light dwells within us.  AMEN

-Steve Nash