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“And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in lovingkindness, and in mercies. I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness.” – Hosea 2:19-20
Plans are underway for a bridal shower. This is the occasion when friends and family of the bride-to-be gather in her honor and bring gifts to be used in her new home. The gifts will serve the new family that will be established—some are ornamental, to make the home comfortable and beautiful. Others are serviceable, designed to accomplish specific tasks. The gift-givers are excited to bring the items they believe will please the newlyweds and contribute to their happiness.
The fifth chapter of Ephesians compares a bride to the Church, the spiritual bride of Christ. We are reminded that, just as an earthly bride prepares for that momentous day, the Church must prepare herself for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, when Christ will take His own to be with Him.
Just as an earthly bride is offered gifts before her wedding, God also offers gifts to be “opened” before the wedding. They are available to the members of His Church, the redeemed. In 1 Corinthians 14, we are urged to seek spiritual gifts. We first unwrap the gift of salvation, followed by the gift of sanctification, and then the precious gift of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. God also offers us the gift of healing through Jesus’ shed Blood, as well as many other spiritual gifts mentioned in Scripture. They are, as it were, gifts for the Bride. They are presented to prepare the Bride of Christ for her new home which, in this case, is in Heaven. God is even now preparing that home, and the Groom is anxiously waiting for the announcement of the Bride’s arrival.
Jesus has said, “Surely I come quickly.” Are we ready for Him to come? Are we prepared for the marriage? Have we received the gifts God has offered His Bride? He gives these gifts freely, if we will only submit to Him and believe.
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