Devotion

Nineteen years ago this beautiful young lady said, "I do" to my son in her hometown of Palmetto, Florida. Ironically, this many years later we live near where they were married and where her few relatives live even though we're native Kentuckians and my son and Gail met in Tennessee during their college years. They're the parents of six "wonderful" children whom they home school. I admire them for many things, not the least of which is their decision to 'home school' which I'm sure requires a lot of 'grace.'

Interestingly, during our Sunday School class, our teacher brought an allegory using marriage as representative of our relationship with Christ. I've never heard it explained quite as clearly as this and I'd like to share it with you.

He said that when Christ (via the Holy Spirit) has invited us to accept Him (Jesus) as Savior and if we accept his invitation, but don't do His will, it's the same as if my son, Shane had asked Gail to marry him and she'd said "yes" but, then she had gone on to date several other guys and even had sex with them before the formal wedding day.

In Jewish tradition if a man and woman were betrothed, it was every bit as binding as a wedding, but it wasn't finalized until the ceremony was finally held. That's what was represented in scripture when Jesus said, "I've gone to prepare a place for you and I'll come again and take you unto myself." That's why Joseph was going to 'put Mary away quietly' when he found that she was 'with child' until the Holy Spirit spoke to Him that the child she carried was Holy.

What is scary is that anyone who invites Jesus into their lives and doesn't remain faithful to Him is just like a whore and that's when on judgment day Jesus will say, "I never knew you...(or I never became 'intimate') with you" because you didn't remain faithful to me. You were pursuing pleasures such as business or education or any other interest you can name besides..."seek first the kingdom of God...and all the rest will be added to you." Not because there's anything wrong with those things, but your God/spouse has be first.

The Bible teaches that those who are 'intimate' with God are not going to be caught off guard or surprised when the rapture or catching away takes place which is when 'the BRIDE' enjoys a feast/celebration with the bridegroom. All the signs are pointing to it's imminent occurrence. So, I am saying.....this is YOUR invitation. Make REALLY sure you're dressed and ready to attend.