“Out of the eater, something to eat; out of the strong, something sweet” (Judg. 14:14). What is it? Who is this strong eater? And what sweetness does he give? What an odd riddle. It had Samson’s companions stumped for days. Finally, after threatening her, they got the answer from Samson’s bride. Then they reported to him, “What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than a lion?” (Judg. 14:18). They had their answer—a honeycomb in the mouth of a dead lion.

In some ancient Jewish writings, the Messiah is portrayed as a powerful lion. In the last days, He will come to judge some and have mercy on others. [Louis Brighton, Revelation (St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1999), 136]. That is a vivid portrayal of our Lord Jesus. It is true that He was humble (Matt. 11:29). It is true that He was led to the slaughter like a lamb (Is. 53:7, Matt. 27:31). By all outward appearances, He looked weak. But He was not.

Quite to the contrary, with the strength of the most ferocious lion, He fought Satan and rose victorious. Our Lord devoured His enemies. All who are against the Lord will be torn apart. He is ferocious. As He told Israel, “Like a lion I will devour them” (Hos. 13:8). So also St. John referring to Jesus writes, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, . . . has triumphed” (Rev. 5:5).

The lion in Samson’s riddle was only a carcass. So also was our Lord Jesus—for a time. His lifeless body was taken down from the cross and His mouth no longer spoke the sweet message of the Gospel—at least for three days. Then, once again after His resurrection, words sweeter than honey flowed from His mouth— words of love, peace, and forgiveness. “How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth” (Ps. 119:103). No bitter words of anger, hate, or deception ever came from His mouth (1 Pet. 2:22-23).

Samson’s companions were concerned about the riddle because there was so much hanging in the balance—30 linen garments and 30 sets of clothes (Judg. 14:12-13). So also in knowing Jesus— there is much hanging in the balance—yes, a whole new wardrobe. Those who know that Jesus has torn apart His enemies— those who have tasted and digested the sweet Gospel He taught—those who know Jesus and what He has done for them— are clothed in His righteousness (Rev. 7:13-14). Our only response can be one of sheer delight, “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness” (Is. 61:10).

Prayer: Oh Lion of Judah, it is no riddle or puzzle to know You. You have devoured your enemies. Yet, the words of Gospel, which proceed from Your mouth, are sweeter than honey. Keep me clothed in Your righteousness always. Amen.

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Updated: Tuesday February 12, 2008