For the past two years I have worked at a bridal shop. During this time I have become intimately aware of every minute detail that goes into the preparation of a bride for her bridegroom.
It all begins with a simple question, "Will you marry me? After a much anticipated (and hopeful) response of "yes", the bride begins to formulate the "ideal wedding." Some brides envision a large formal ceremony followed by a lavish reception with all the trimmings. Others prefer a more intimate ceremony with a few of their closest friends and family. And then there are those who simply wish to run off and elope at some justice of the peace or do the "Vegas thing.
Though very different in nature, each of these weddings have one thing in common, and that is the importance of how the bride presents herself to her bridegroom on their wedding day. Choosing the perfect gown, veil, flowers, etc.. These are things that can't be rushed. "As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you".(Isaiah 62:5)
This is what every bride desires, for their bridegroom to "rejoice over them". This is why the preparation is so important.
We are the bride, and Jesus is our bridegroom. He is coming back for us. How will we present ourselves to Him? Are we prepared?
Again it all begins with a simple question, "Do you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead"? (The seeds are planted)
If the answer is "yes", we know that preparations have to be made, (the Holy Spirit enters and the watering begins).
Time to choose our perfect gown (love, joy , peace) -- veil (patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness)--flowers (gentleness, self-control). (Galatians 5:22). (time to harvest our spiritual fruits).
Again these are things that cannot be rushed. There is no eloping with God. We cannot go from "yes" to honeymoon all in one day. Growth takes time and faithfulness. Our fruit is our witness, not just to those who watch us but more importantly to God.
We are the bride and Jesus is our bridegroom. He is coming back for us. The wedding of the lamb is prepared. Are you?
No comments:
Post a Comment