Scripture for Today:  Revelation 19:7  “Let us rejoice and shout for joy!  Let us celebrate and ascribe to Him glory and honor, for the marriage of the Lamb at last has come and His bride has prepared herself.”

I do not even know this couple.  We were in Colmar the other day and just happened on these newlyweds posing for their photographer.  I could not resist taking a picture too as they were so striking.  Whose head doesn’t turn at the sight of a beautifully adorned bride!

We as the Church are called the Bride of Christ.  I love this image as it speaks of the most loving intimate relationship possible.  One day, I will be wearing the pure white linen of righteousness and I will enjoy a love relationship uninterrupted by sin.

Stories of love on this earth are often tainted with skepticism.  There is so much hurt and betrayal destroying the ideal.  But in heaven the One who created this relationship has reserved for us its fullest expression in a relationship with Himself.  He is our perfect and faithful groom.  He cherishes us and has been preparing for this coming marriage since time began.

That kind of love is life-changing.  It means that I am actually worth something, that I have value.  His love for me makes me beautiful, warts and all.  My deepest need for unconditional love and acceptance is met in Him.  The love He offers is eternal and never fails.  It is only because of my human limitations that I do not fully experience it here.  But one day.  One day I will be a bride again, without spot or wrinkle.  On that day, there will be wild celebrations and shouts of joy from all of us who belong to Him!  Here comes the Bride!!