Read Daniel 7:1-14
And, just like that, we have entered the second half of the book of Daniel. We’ll now encounter several apocalyptic visions Daniel had about the future of God’s people. Because of the chapters that preceded this, we can picture Daniel living his life in Babylon. We can understand a little of the environment he found himself in after being taken into exile. The shift is now from Daniel’s back story and public displays of God’s power to more private encounters.
This first vision is a bit troubling with images of beasts amidst strong storms. Can’t you just picture it? Yet there is something very calming about the appearance of the “son of man.” Perhaps it was because of the familiarity. We as Christ-followers may well recognize Jesus in this passage.
In our next reading, we’ll learn more about how Daniel discovers the meaning of this vision. For now, we can only marvel at the intricate detail. My dreams may be detailed, but rarely do I remember them clearly enough to write them down. Undoubtedly, this is a message God wanted Daniel to share.
Daniel calls out “someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven.” Did you know Jesus referred to himself as “son of man” eighty times in the Bible? I’m relying on a “google search” for that little tidbit. But if you’re wondering why he would be the “son of man” and not the “son of God,” he’s actually both. Born of Mary, Jesus is also human, while at the same time, he is also miraculously the son of God. Take a moment to marvel in the majesty of God!
My reflection wants to drift toward Jesus, probably because the beasts just sound gnarly and unfriendly. They meet their doom anyway.
In addition to seeing Jesus, this scene resembles a future judgment day. Do you see that, too? Jesus kingdom will finally be established! Daniel describes the son of man’s kingdom saying, “His rule is eternal—it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.” Hallelujah, King Jesus!
Let’s pray. Wow, what a vision, Lord! Daniel must have been so awed to have received this word from you. He wouldn’t have known the depth of what he was foretelling. I love it when you use me to do mighty things, too. Each day you remind me how much I need you. Thank you for those gentle and subtle reminders. I love you Lord. I want to do what is right in your sight and honors you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
