One of the reasons for Jesus’ incarnation was to bring abundant life (John 10:10). To do this, humanity had to be reconciled to God so that there could be peace—the full satisfaction of God’s wrath toward humanity’s transgressions and lawlessness and the cessation of human enmity toward God. For there to be genuine peace, it had to be done the right way. Any plan which compromised God’s righteousness and thus resulted in pseudo-peace had to be rejected. Only a flawless plan was acceptable.
God eternally purposed and in the fullness of time implemented such a plan. It enabled Him to be just—uncompromisingly holy and righteous—while also wooing the hostile hearts of His enemies. This plan is beautifully summed up in Psalm 85:10—”Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed.”
Integral in this plan of God is the rightful placement of Jesus Christ as the one mediator between God and men. Like Melchisedek the king of Salem, Jesus is the king-priest of God. Like Melchisedek, Jesus is “king of righteousness” and “king of peace” (Hebrews 7:2).
In the gospel of Christ, mercy and truth have met; righteousness and peace have kissed.
Oh, what a kiss!
