In "a christmas carol", how does the first spirit effect scrooge's redemption ?

I think the 1st spirit's physical appearance (if that is the real question) was a bit confusing and compelling to Scrooge. He wanted to be very afraid, the the spirit was beautiful to look at. Youthful, yet old with the experience of a thousand years. Ethereal, yet strong enough to keep Scrooge safe. Not threatening in any physical way, but with the power to transport him to another place and make him see.