This first verse is found at the end of the Old Testament and the second verse at the end of the New Testament. The “Sun of Righteousness” is Jesus, just as He is also the “Bright and Morning Star.” In both of these expressions, His coming is pointedly described. God’s chosen earthly people, Israel, are particularly addressed in the Old Testament. They will look for the Lord Jesus to come in great power and majesty, just as the sun arises in its splendor, “with healing in His wings.” The beauty of the light and warmth of the sun will fill the whole earth with gladness.

The Church on earth today is taught that the Lord Jesus will appear as the Bright and Morning Star. This star arises while it is still dark, before the sun shines forth in majesty. While the world is sleeping, this blessed Lord of glory will suddenly descend from heaven and catch up all who trust Him as Savior—both those who have died and those who are living—and take them to be forever with Himself. Wonderful prospect!

How can this be possible? It is because He is the “Root and Offspring of David.” Although He came by birth from David, yet David came from Him! Since He is the Offspring of David, He is truly Man in every pure sense—a Man able to sympathetically enter into all the needs and concerns of mankind. Being also the Root of David, He is no less than “God over all, blessed forever.” He is the object of worshiping adoration of all those redeemed by His precious blood. May we look with longing eyes and hearts for the coming of such a Lord, and then we will be with Him and like Him forever. “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20).