Christ, the WALL

Behold on our left hand is a WALL. The evangelical prophet preaches Jesus to us by this figure, (Isaiah 25:4), "a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall." He is "THE WALL." Behind this, we may stand while the pelting storm blows over and escape uninjured.

The metaphor is of eastern origin, where a wall would be considered under some circumstances as no small mercy. But even we can understand its meaning, and derive profit from the idea. The wall interposing between us and our foes — makes us safe.

Just so, Jesus will be "a wall of fire round about" His people, and will be "the glory in the midst of them." He will interpose between the sinner and his God, when He appears to be a consuming fire. He will prevent the arrows of divine justice from penetrating the conscience, and "the fiery darts of the wicked" from destroying the soul. He will stand between the believer and every malicious foe, and preserve the soul that trusts in Him, from real harm. Nothing shall by any means hurt them. "And we know that all things shall work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."

Gracious Savior! Be my shelter from the pitiless storm — and my shadow from the scorching sun! Interpose between me and every danger, and may I find that when the blast of the terrible one is as a storm — that you are "THE WALL."

Let my soul in danger prove
That you, O Lord, are higher,
Compassed by almighty love,
As by a WALL of fire!

J.Sm.