The Bride Makes Herself Ready!

 I’ve been preaching about the Eternal Love Story—Jesus, the heavenly bride-groom and the Church (born-again followers of Christ) as the Bride.  There are some awesome parallels from a traditional Jewish relationship and wedding, to the relationship between Christ and the Church.  You see, once a young woman accepted a young man’s proposal, they “drank of the cup,” to signify her acceptance of his proposal.  When we take communion, we “drink of the cup,” to signify our acceptance
of His proposal.  
 
Following this, the groom goes back home, to build an addition onto his father’s house.  When the addition is completed, He goes back to get his bride.  Likewise, Jesus said, "In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. 3"If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:2-3 (NASB)  

Oh, and so a groom wouldn’t slack on his building, he had to build it according to the father’s specifications—only his father could tell him it was acceptable and when he could go get his bride.  That’s why Matthew records, "But of that day and hour
no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Mark 13:32 (NKJV) 

While the groom is gone, the bride makes preparations.  According to Revelation 19:7 (NASB) "Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready."  I’m in the midst of doing three weddings in seven weeks.  I can tell you that the brides are paying attention to every detail in their wedding
preparations.  Hair, make-up, dress, shoes, nails, etc., to look as “perfect” as possible.  What preparations are you making as your “wedding day” approaches?  Since Jesus is interested in the “inner” you, what preparations are you making so your character looks beautiful to Him?  
 
Finally, a bride can’t get Him or the “date” off their minds.  Is the day you begin eternity with Jesus on your mind? Is there daily excitement about that day?  A faithful bride’s affections will be turned towards Him, more than anything else.  Don’t delay in turning your thoughts, your affections towards Him.  He’s looking for a faithful bride.  Love Him with all your heart today!