The Great Rider

“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” – Revelation 19:11-16

“And this I also say: you are our captain and our banner. The Dark Lord has Nine: But we have One, mightier than they: the White Rider.” – Aragorn, The Lord of the Rings

What will Jesus look like when he returns? Something like what John saw in his vision, except more glorious than words can ever convey. I like to imagine a great Rider on a white horse, a mighty warrior riding into battle like the wind, robed in white and clothed in glory and light and magnificent splendor. His hair flows in the wind, but his face is constant, calm and benevolent and loving, yet at the same time full of strength and power – he is in control, and his triumph is at hand. He is ageless, both young and old, and his majesty is all the greater. All wisdom and knowledge are present in his face. He is good. His presence brings strength and hope – his victory is inevitable, and all danger is passed. The sunlight beams down on the face of the Son. The greatest of swords is in his hand, his armor shines like the sun, he rides his white horse with ease and unshakeable control. All warriors or heroes or armies that are told of in stories are nothing compared to him and the host he leads. They are mere vessels or images of his far greater glory and strength. Perhaps the archangel Michael would ride beside him, or the angel Gabriel, but our Lord would be far greater than them, and in the moment of battle he would outride them and fly like the wind, annihilating all of his enemies. Jesus Christ will return in glory – that day is coming. But...