We all need and long for love. A love that never ends. This is the reason weddings are such a momentous and joyous occasion. There is a romantic hope that a perfect love between two people will be sealed and protected for life. Up to that time, there is only the hope and expectation. The wedding secures that commitment. The engagement ring speaks of this hope but the wedding ring transfers those expectations into reality.
One moving part of the wedding ceremony occurs when the hand of the bride is placed into the bridegroom’s. Her hope for the future transcends her fear of the new and unknown. She is placing her trust in her husband’s future love and care for her.
The church as Christ’s bride in a similar way is longing for the wedding day when all the hopes and promises become real. In order to secure her for her own, Christ paid a dowry. It cost Him His life, but He gave of Himself on the cross so she could be His own forever. Now He is preparing a place for her. Jesus says,
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. ... I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. (John 14:2-3).
Cross †raining
Bride
