The Groom Awaits

Nineteen years ago, when I held her in my arms, a pending marriage seemed a lifetime away. Now that she is all grown up and the altar is beckoning, reality has hit me square in the face. A few days from now, she will stand at the altar, pledging her life, love and devotion to the man she will call her husband. All I have left of her younger days are my memories.

I should have known she’d get married early. All she ever talked about was her husband and her children. I remember one of her plans included two houses across the creek from one another, with a little bridge to get from one side to the other. I lived in one; she lived in the other. She planned on walking her children across the bridge so I could baby-sit them.

Not much has changed. She still can’t wait for children, although her and Michael’s plans include finishing school first. Truth be told, I can’t wait until she has children either. I see the cutest little clothes everywhere I go. I am going to love spoiling those kids!

The day we have all been waiting for is now imminent. The white dress of purity has been bought and paid for with a price. Soon, the bride will don her gown and present herself to her groom. Her countenance will be one of expectation, slightly fearful, yet wonderfully anticipating the moment she becomes his.

All the plans have been laid. The table set. The food prepared. The guests have been beckoned in anxious anticipation. Every moment between now and the altar, every word spoken, every deed done, is in preparation for the feast, the celebration of new love.

As I sit back in moments like this, reflecting upon how much life has changed, and what new stages we are entering, I cannot help but think about the day each and every one of us will stand waiting for our groom. Some will run for the hills, wishing for more time to prepare. Others will welcome His presence, desiring to be held in His arms forever.

He is constantly beckoning us, come. He stands before us, His love fierce, protective and unending. He desires that we all come to Him, open arms, ready and willing. He wants to love on us. He wants to forever be in our presence. I am reminded of the hymn, Just As I Am.

1st verse: Just as I am, without one plea, but that thy blood was shed for me, and that thou bidst me come to thee, Oh Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Last verse: Just as I am, thy love unknown, hath broken every barrier down; now, to be thine, yea thine alone. O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Do you hear Him? He is calling for you. Don’t run to the hills; don’t turn away. Listen to the voice of the groom calling His bride. He bids you, come.