Revelation 19:7 – Let us be glad and rejoice and honor him; for the time has come for the wedding banquet of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. (TLB)

When Prince Harry was married this year, several Canadians unexpectedly received personal invitations to the royal wedding in England. Of course, they were thrilled to accept. Wouldn't you?

It reminded me of a time in a small village where I worked in a nursing home that had become rather shabby over the years. When new owners took possession, our spirits were lifted as renovations began. Dull institution-green walls were painted red and blue. Expecting the style to be country, with wallpaper borders of ducks and apples, popular at that time, we were intrigued when a regal theme began to emerge.

It was unusual. I remarked that we should invite Queen Elizabeth to the grand re-opening. This was met with laughter, but I reasoned that since the Queen was soon to visit Canada and she visited hospitals and schools, she must receive invitations. So, I decided to write to Buckingham Palace. When word got out, I was the subject of much ridicule. Who did I think I was? As if the Queen of England would deign to visit us!

Two weeks later, I received an envelope with a silver-embossed coat of arms! I opened it with shaking hands. The letter was short and came from the Palace Secretary's office. My invitation was very graciously declined because Her Majesty was not planning to visit Ontario this time, but only British Columbia.

An awful idea hatched in my mind. With just a small change and a photocopy, the letter soon read that the Queen had indeed accepted my invitation! I would have the last laugh at work. I pinned it to the staff notice board and waited for the fun to begin.

Word spread around the Manor like wildfire. Residents were suddenly alert and talkative. I heard that we were all to receive new uniforms, free, and then, that the head nurse planned to telephone her sister in England and invite her for the occasion. Suddenly, I realized this was getting out of hand. "O, what a tangled web we weave when first we practise to deceive!" I sped down the back stairs and switched the letter for the authentic one.

Thankfully, everyone enjoyed the joke, and was still laughing about it for weeks to come. The real letter disappeared, and I was afraid that I was in big trouble. But a short time later, it reappeared in a silver frame in the front entrance. Many years later when my father-in-law was in that nursing home, it still hung there.

Friends, we, too, have received a royal invitation. It is no joke. Jesus is the Bridegroom and we are His bride! There will be a celebration like no other. Will you accept?

John 14:2b-3 – When everything is ready, then I will come and get you, so that you can always be with me where I am. If this weren't so, I would tell you plainly. (TLB)

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Lamb of God, King of kings, Ruler Supreme, yes! I accept. Please forgive my sins and come into my heart. Take control of my life and make me new. I want to be with You forever. Thank You for inviting me. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

JJ Ollerenshaw <sandjollie86@gmail.com>
Belleville, Ontario, Canada
Send your feedback to the author