November 29

The Message Of The Seraphim

Then one of the seraphim flew to me, and in his hand was a glowing coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. And with it he touched my mouth and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your iniquity is removed and your sin is atoned for.” — Isa 6:6-7 BSB

Each seraph had six wings: “With two they covered their face.” This represents reverence, one of the noblest traits in both angelic and human character. The statesman who seeks to understand God’s purpose in the events of history, the artist who glimpses the divine in their work, and the scientist who humbly acknowledges the vast unknown—all reflect the reverence of the seraphim.

“With two they covered their feet”—this speaks of self-effacement and humility. When we begin to think and talk too much about ourselves, we show that we have not yet reached the highest spiritual state. The seraphim forgot themselves in their overwhelming love for God. When will we, too, forget ourselves in His love and live for Him who died and rose for us?

“With two they flew”—this symbolizes obedient service. A third of our energy should be devoted to service. Two-thirds of our time should be spent in communion and worship, but this must lead to action. A life that lacks service becomes stagnant. The eager soul that is right with God will always inspire others. Like one bird’s song that awakens the whole forest, the cry of one soul stirs others to serve. The seraphim declared that the whole earth is filled with God’s glory!

When the prophet Isaiah saw this vision, he became aware of his own sinfulness: “Woe is me! I am a man of unclean lips.” But he didn’t need to agonize for cleansing—he simply confessed. Immediately, a seraph brought a live coal from the altar to cleanse him. Likewise, the Lord, through the fire of the Holy Spirit, purges our sin. Cleansed and forgiven, we are ready to say, “Here am I; send me.” Redeemed sinners make the best evangelists!

Prayer

Lord, give us more than an angel’s love, for You have redeemed us. Give us the swiftness of an angel’s obedience. Cleanse us from all sin, and use us in Your service. Amen.