Refined

"With joy and gladness they are led along as they enter the palace of the king," Psalm 45:15.

What king? The king whose God anointed him with the oil of gladness. The Anointed one. The Messiah. Christ. The king, Jesus, who rode out victoriously for the cause of truth, of humility, and righteousness. (You know that song, Out Of Ivory Palaces? Yes, well, this psalm is where that line comes from.) Here's the interesting part: Who's being led into the king's palace? The queen and her royal entourage. She's a beauty. A refined beauty. Lavish garments flow around her. What a celebration! She's left her people and family to be with this king. And the King desires her beauty. She bows to the King. He will make her name famous everywhere forever. So what's her name? Bride of Christ. The Church.

With a brother or sister today we speak of the coming banquet feast of the Lamb with his Bride. And, together, always together, his congregation, we give thanks to God and his Christ who cleansed us and sanctified us fit for his kingdom.