Bride of Christ
Scripture Reading — Revelation 19:5-9
"The wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready." Revelation 19:7
Every culture gives a special place to weddings. They are celebrations of beauty and life. They declare not only the love between a man and a woman but also the community's hope for the future. Great time and effort are invested in planning and preparations. Family and friends travel from great distances to celebrate with the couple. Brides carefully make themselves as radiant as possible for the day of celebration.
Is it any wonder that the church is described as the bride of Christ? The church is preparing for the return of Jesus, who is coming to claim his bride and be united with her forever. The bride, dressed in beautiful bright linen woven from deeds of obedience and love, has prepared for the greatest celebration in history. What a glorious picture of the church of Christ triumphant!
The room is electrified with anticipation. The shout of the guests is so powerful that it mimics the sounds of a storm crashing through the mountains. The celebration has come! The guests have arrived! The radiant bride steps forth to greet her husband.
The image of Christ returning for his bride is so beautiful that it drives us to worship. Even more amazing is that this vision is about us. Those who follow Christ, who love and serve him, whom he has redeemed--we are the church, the bride of Christ!
Lord Jesus, prepare us for the day of your return. Your bride is preparing for her wedding day. Come, Lord; come quickly. In your name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Jerry Dykstra
Pastor Jerry Dykstra was recently appointed as the executive director of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. After a 15-year career in business, he trained for pastoral ministry and served as the pastor of Cascade Fellowship CRC, Cascade, Michigan, and Faith Christian Fellowship CRC, Walnut Creek, California. He and his wife, Linda, live in Byron Center, Michigan, and have three children and seven grandchildren.
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