https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8V4HEPZdBo Ernie Haase
https://images.fineartamerica.com/images/artworkimages/mediumlarge/1/the-bridegroom-returns-jennifer-oakley-delaplante.jpg With written permission and our deepest gratitude!
Deployed for Service
I was not born a military brat but the military is very much a part of my DNA. My daddy was a Marine in Korea so I was a Merchant Marine sailing the globe delivering goods. The small southern town where I grew up was home to an Air Force base. A class of new Air Force fighter pilots trained every year or so. I dated a guy in the United States Navy, and two in the United States Air Force.
Love a man in a uniform
The officer and gentleman was one of them. Yes, I have a penchant for a man in a uniform. I have a brother-in-law who served in the USAF and a nephew who followed his grandfather’s service in the Marines. My father-in-law was in the Air Force during WWII flying Bob Hope around to entertain the troops. During my teen years, many friends left to serve in Vietnam. Their homecoming was less than appreciative.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DPo6hBWzB0
Homecoming
It should come as no surprise that the homecoming videos of military personnel are near and dear to my heart. They are always good for an eye washout. I said more than one goodbye as those I cared about deployed, all the while wondering if they would arrive home as they left or if would they return with consequences of war. The blank check signed by each was real to me. The goodbyes are so hard and the homecomings are so sweet. Seeing their faces alive and well and on hometown soil was an answer to prayer. And for those families who serve alongside those willing to die we should all offer our sincerest thanks!
Anticipation
It dawned on me recently that this is how I should anticipate the return of Jesus. It will be expected but the exact time will be a complete surprise. Will I run into His arms as I ran into the arms of those who went away? Jesus has been away for a long time according to His Bride. I have read His love letter to me over and over. I know this is the season of His return but I do not know the exact day. I do believe it will be the sweetest moment of my entire existence. It is the moment the Bride longs to experience if she has been faithful or dreads if she has not. I wish I knew so I could have everything ready but He insists on it being a surprise. So, I must keep myself ready and remain faithful. Matthew 24:36
“In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” I Cor 15:52
Together At Last
To be reunited with Jesus and to never again be separated is our hope. We long to be returned to the Garden and for there to be peace and harmony or all of the time. No more war. No more pain, No more death, disability, destruction, disease, or deployments. Together forever!
Are you waiting with bated breath for the Bridegroom’s return? Have you felt the weight of the waiting? Does your heart skip a beat as you say His name and as you think of His return for you? It is just that personal. A moment between you and the LORD God of the Universe. He is coming. Matthew 24:27
Pray this prayer
Here’s My Heart Lord, Casting Crowns
If Jesus returns in fulfillment of His promise, I will see you there!
“In my Father’s house, there are many rooms, ….. I hope yours is next to mine!”
