The Three Choirs of Angels that we have been
hitherto considering are the Angels of pure contemplation.
Next to them come what are called the
Regulative Choirs, who are engaged in the regulation
of the general arrangements of God's Providence.
The Dominations are the highest of these Regulative Choirs.
The lesson they teach is that to serve God is
to reign. His service represents a dignity far greater
than that of the highest and most glorious of earthly
sovereigns. He who serves God is a king, a priest
to God. If we are ambitious, here is an opportunity
of the highest possible dignity for us.
They also teach that only those who serve
God are fit to rule others. Obedience is a necessary
qualification for a good superior. None are successful
as rulers unless they have previously learned
to obey and to be led by some higher guide than
their own will and judgment. If I am in any position
of authority, I must obey well those over
me, if I am to rule well those beneath me.
They also proclaim the principle of true liberty.
What tyranny worse than that of the French
Revolution! What liberty more perfect than the
liberty of Christ! To be subject to others does not
mar our liberty, it only perfects it. To be subject
to God is necessary to liberty. We must serve some
one. It is a choice between being the servant of
God, or the slave of the devil and of our own
passions.