It was a picture-perfect day:  sunshine and 90 degrees.  My husband and I hopped on our motorcycle and embarked on a grand adventure to the mountains of South Carolina.  With the wind in our hair, we were finally headed toward our bucket-list destination:  “Pretty Place Chapel”.  It is a beautiful open-air chapel built onto the side of the mountain overlooking the lush valley below.  I thought it would be a great place to visit, have our own private prayer service, and perhaps make an impromptu video for our ministry Facebook page.   I had big plans!

We ascended through the tall, mountain pines, following the signs directing us to the gate outside the chapel.  Finally, we had arrived!  A smiling man approached and asked if we were there for the “wedding”.  WEDDING?  My countenance suddenly fell as I reluctantly decided not to crash the event.  I admitted that no, we had not been invited.  We solemnly turned our bike around to make the two-hour voyage back home.

The ride itself was beautiful, and we plan to go back to “Pretty Place” another day.  (Perhaps we’ll call ahead next time to be sure it isn’t reserved for a private event!)  But I began to think about another gate we will all stand before at one time or another, and another wedding feast that will be taking place inside.

Throughout scripture, Jesus (the Lamb of God) is referred to as the groom, and the church (those who have been saved) is pictured as His precious bride. After the rapture of the church when we will be joined together with Christ for eternity, there will be a grand celebration in heaven.  The bible calls this event the “Marriage Supper of the Lamb”.   (Revelation 19:7-9)  Just as our names were not on the list for the wedding at “Pretty Place Chapel”, if our names are not written in the “Lamb’s Book of Life”, we will not be allowed to enter through those magnificent gates of pearl.  But this time, there will not be another day to come back and try again.  There will  not be a second chance or other opportunity.

My friends, every one of us will stand before the Lord one day, whether it be when He returns for His church, or as we take our last breath on this earth.  No one knows when that moment will be  – are you ready?  If you have not yet asked the Lord to forgive your sins and save your soul, I urge you to do it today!  Tomorrow is not promised anyone.  We are but a mere breath away from those brilliant gates before the Kingdom of God.  Is your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life?  Will those gates open for you, or will you be turned away?  Make sure to give your life to the Lord Jesus Christ.  Where you spend eternity depends on it!  He loves you so much that He gave His life to spend eternity with you.

Hope to see you at the wedding!