After the Jewish bride was chosen and the bride price was paid, a season of preparation began.

The bride would not know the exact day or hour when her groom would return — only that he would come.

Her task was to be ready.

She would spend her time making herself beautiful, learning the ways of her new life, gathering her lamp, preparing her heart for the joyful day ahead.

And so it is with us.

The Bridegroom, Jesus Christ, has paid the price.

He has promised to return.

Now, we are living in the time of preparation.

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”

— Matthew 25:13 (NIV)

The Waiting Season

Waiting is never passive.

It is an active hope — a day-by-day preparation of heart, mind, and spirit.

The bride didn’t sit idly, doing nothing.

She prepared herself with great joy and expectancy, knowing that the one she loved would soon come for her.

In the same way, we are called to live alert, faithful, and expectant — not distracted, not complacent, but eagerly anticipating our Bridegroom’s return.

What Preparation Looks Like

Keeping our lamps burning — living lives full of the Holy Spirit’s presence and light.

Clothing ourselves in righteousness — walking in holiness and grace.

Guarding our hearts — refusing to let the world dull our love or steal our joy.

Strengthening our faith — digging deep into the Word and prayer.

Preparation is not about perfection — it’s about pursuit.

We prepare not because we fear being left behind, but because we love the One who is coming.

Reflect and Respond

Am I living today with an active expectancy for Christ’s return?

What “preparations” is God inviting me to make in my heart, my habits, my relationships?

How can I keep my “lamp burning” this week — full of His Spirit and ready for His coming?

A Prayer for Today

Lord, teach me to live as one who waits with joy.

Keep my heart tender, my faith strong, my love pure.

Help me to prepare for Your coming — not out of fear, but out of love.

Let my life be a light that points others to You until the day You return.

Amen. ♥️