Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me! It’s a vital part of my morning and evening prayers. When I journal and examine my life, I realize how far short of the glory of God I fall. With gratitude I acknowledge His forgiveness and for His grace that redeems and sanctifies me. It’s another reason that I’m grateful for the promise of the parousia or Rapture of the Church. At that moment God will do something in our lives that is thrilling. He will make us blameless and holy when our Lord Jesus comes again.

This passage from 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 gives me great hope.

“May the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows. May he, as a result, make your hearts strong, blameless, and holy as you stand before God our Father when our Lord Jesus comes again with all his holy people. Amen.”

The future groom walked painfully and sat down carefully in my study. “What’s wrong,” I asked. “I fell asleep on the tanning bed and the wedding is next week.” I shouldn’t have but I burst into laughter. He explained that he wanted to look his best for his bride. His hopes were dashed, now I look like a lobster he said. After assuring him that everyone wants to look their best for their wedding and I understood. We both laughed. I assured him he’d be fine before the wedding. On that special day, he told me I’m not in pain but I look awful. When the happy bride and groom returned from their honeymoon she laughed as she described his “spotted and speckled skin!” What a memory. I’m laughing typing these words. He had hoped that the tanning salon would help him look his best!

I know that postionally we have been made holy and that each day we are growing in holiness. But oh, how I long for that day when my heart, desires and thoughts will be completely in line with my Lord!

As we look forward to that day let us love one another and may our hearts overflow with love for all people!

What makes us look our best? The grace and love of God that we share with one another. That’s hope that won’t disappoint.

Peace.