January 4, 2004

THE ONE ALTOGETHER LOVELY

"Yes, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend" (Song of Solomon 5:16, NKJV).

There is something appealing and truly fascinating about this exquisite portrait of Jesus. All who have captured the beauty of His saving grace cannot but testify that indeed Jesus Christ is the One who is altogether lovely.

As our self-denying Redeemer, our dearest Friend, our constant Companion, our compassionate Intercessor, our all-sufficient Saviour-Jesus is indeed "altogether lovely." Ellen G. White wrote: "In the One 'altogether lovely,' we behold Him, of whom all beauty of earth and heaven is but a dim reflection."--Education, p. 192. In this single, powerful affirmation is embodied the charming and irresistible appeal of the world's gracious Redeemer.

Everything about Jesus Christ is incomparably beautiful. His wonderful name is beautiful, His character is beautiful, all His works are beautiful, His precious promises are infinitely beautiful. Moreover, His beauty is contagious. All who are touched by the power of His saving grace are miraculously transformed into His divine image. "The noblest and most gentle among men are but a faint reflection [of the one] of whom Solomon by the Spirit of inspiration wrote... 'Yea, He is altogether lovely.' "--Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 49.

The loveliness of Jesus makes sin appear ugly and unappealing to those who have been transformed by His beauty. As Ellen G. White vividly puts it: "When the sinner has a view of the matchless charms of Jesus, sin no longer looks attractive to him; for he beholds the Chiefest among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely.'--Faith and Works, p. 107.

MY PRAYER TODAY: Lord, may the One who is altogether lovely, beautify my life today. Amen!