Do you love to look at a castle or even go on a tour of one? My husband and I love castles. When I was 16, I went to Spain. The best part of the tour is going to all the castle and having a tour. Just think, when we go to heaven, we will be at our King’s castle/palace. How exciting is that?
Let’s back up a little and talk about the actual wedding day. Do you ever watch the groom as he watches the bride walk down the aisle to meet him? Or is your eyes only on the Bride? Next time you go to a wedding, pay attention to the groom. I remember walking down the aisle. The moment I saw my husband, my eyes were locked to his. Oh, how he adored me then and still does today (17 years later).
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-15. Are there any similarities to the customs of the Jewish wedding? Paul was trying to comfort the Thessalonians concerned that some of the believers there had died before the Lord promised to return. Paul reassured them that they, too, would experience the Lord’s return for His church, the Bride.
Let’s read some more scripture. Turn to 1 Corinthians 15: 42-58 and Philippians 3:20-21. What is the change that will take place for those who know Jesus Christ as their resurrected Lord and Savior? How do these verses urge us to get ready for this time? These passages say that we will be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye. Our weak, dishonorable body will be changed into a strong, glorious body. This transformation is spoken of as a manifestation of the power of Christ as Lord over everything.
The Wedding Feast, also known as the Marriage Supper. This is a time of great rejoicing. It lasted for 7 days in Jewish customs. Let’s see what scripture has to say about this feast. Read Revelation 19:7-10 and Ephesians 2:10. How is the Bride clothed? What is her clothing, according to verse 8, and how does Ephesians 2:10 relate to this? Her clothing is the preparation during her time on earth. It is done through the deeds done in faith and obedience to her Lord.
Our clothing will be according to our obedience to the Lord.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all that you do for us. I pray that we will be intentional about obeying you in all areas of our life. As we are preparing for your return, I pray that we will keep our focus on you and not on this world.
In Jesus Name
Amen
