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But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings, and you will go out and playfully jump like calves from the stall.
Malachi 4:2 HCSB
In the final chapter of the Old Testament, Malachi offers a beautifully symbolic prophecy. Perhaps he meant the Son of Righteousness? Grace and forgiveness were coming soon.
“In many passages God is related to a planet or star (Psa 84:11, Isa 60:19, Rev 22:16, Num 24:17). Here, the Messiah is not only a Sun, but also the Sun of Righteousness who brings healing.”
David Guzik
But I think the most fitting ending for the Old Testament is found in the final word – curse. As Malachi pens that last word, the curse of sin is very much alive and well. The law and sacrificial system of offerings only served to affirm the chains of bondage that could not be broken by man.
It would be Christ’s first sermon that would contain a much different word – liberty.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Luke 4:18-19 ESV
The human race once cursed by God would now be blessed by Him. It never gets old. The contrast of the Old Testament curse and the image of Christ setting the captives free provides a backdrop for the heart of God.