Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

By Kim Ellison

The Bride Says:

I am betrothed.  What a beautiful thought. I am my beloved’s, and he is mine.  The ceremony was beautiful and all I could have ever imagined or hoped for.  I gave my life to him and asked him to be a part of mine.

I promised to honor, to love, and to obey.  My betrothed vowed to love and care for me.   He said he would be with me always, and would never leave nor forsake me.  Imagine that.  I can scarcely envision it.   But I speak truthfully, my beloved said it, and I wholeheartedly trust and believe him.

He has gone to prepare a place for me so that I can live with him forever.  He said he would come back to take me there, so now I wait with much longing and anticipation.  I watch as the day draws near.  I want to be ready when he comes, a spotless, pure, and holy bride.  

Each day I look for my beloved to come and take me away to that magnificent perfect place.  He said I would never shed a tear there.  It is a place where there is no sorrow, no tears, and no pain or death. Oh, how I desire to go to my new home.  The anticipation grows.  My heart longs to be with my betrothed.

The Bridegroom Says:

I reached out my hand, and my betrothed accepted me.  I am so pleased and delighted, and the angels in heaven are rejoicing.  They rejoice when even one sinner repents and gives their life to me. Oh, what a celebration!  How the heavens rejoice! It is beyond a doubt, incredible!

My betrothed loves me, and her desire is to be where I am.  It makes my heart glad.   My love for her is so great, so accepting, and so complete. She is perfect in my sight.  I will love her forever and ever, for my love for her is everlasting. 

My affection for her will never fade, grow distant, or grow cold, for I delight in her.  There is no greater love than to give one’s life for another.  I gave my life for her and suffered death on a cross so she could live.  Through my shed blood, I have given her my righteousness that she would be made holy, and become mine.

I am preparing a beautiful home for her.  It is beyond anything she has ever imagined.   No eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, and no human mind has ever conceived the things I am preparing for those who love me.  It will be magnificent, beyond compare, and beautiful in all its glory! I know she will love it and will want to remain for all of eternity.  Her sorrows will be gone, for she will be comforted.  Hunger and thirst will be no more, for she will be filled.  

I will give her everlasting love, joy, and peace.  I love, delight in, and cherish my betrothed.  When all is prepared, I will come to take her home. We will go to the banquet hall, to the great wedding feast, and she will become my precious bride.  No man knows the day or the hour when I shall come, but you will know the season.  Prepare and make yourself ready, my love, for I come quickly.