In Jewish tradition, after a season of preparation, the groom would finally return for his bride.

But here’s what made it breathtaking:

The bride didn’t know exactly when he would come.

She had to be ready at any moment, waiting with her lamp lit and her heart full of expectation.

When the time came, the groom would approach with a joyful shout and the sound of the shofar — a trumpet blast announcing, “The bridegroom is coming!”

The whole community would celebrate as he swept his bride away for the wedding feast.

This is the same promise Jesus gives us.

“For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

— 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (NIV)

A Certain Promise

We live in a world full of uncertainty — but this we know:

Jesus will return.

Just as surely as the groom came for his bride, just as surely as the promise was made and the price was paid, our Bridegroom is coming again.

Not in fear, but in glory.

Not to judge His Bride, but to rejoice with her.

Living in Hope

We wait — but not with dread.

We wait with joyful hope.

Every sunrise reminds us: Today could be the day.

Every ache for home in our heart reminds us: Our Bridegroom has not forgotten us.

Every prayer, every act of faithfulness, every longing cry of “Come, Lord Jesus” pulls us closer to the moment when we will see Him face-to-face.

Reflect and Respond

How often do I think about Christ’s promised return?

Am I living in a way that reflects joyful anticipation?

What would change in my daily life if I lived as if the Bridegroom could return today?

A Prayer for Today

Jesus, my Bridegroom, keep my heart awake and ready for Your coming.

Let me live each day in joyful expectancy, with my lamp burning brightly.

Thank You for Your promise, for Your faithfulness, for Your unfailing love.

Come quickly, Lord.

Amen. ♥️