Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. ~Hebrews 13:8
I’m discovering her face appears the same no matter where she is in the world.
The bride. Christ’s bride. The church. She’s glorious in her radiance…
…because she reflects Him.
And He is glorious!
I don’t know what I was thinking when I began to travel the world on this 11 month adventure called the World Race. I guess I thought the church would be different in different places.
Isn’t that a natural assumption? Different countries. Different cultures. Different political climates. Different economies. Surely the church would also be different from what I was accustomed to in America, right?
But, I was wrong.
If Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever, why wouldn’t His bride be?
Yes, there may be different languages spoken. There may be different songs sung. There may be struggles unique to the region of the world in which individuals reside. However, the similarity of the church around the world is built on people united in the Savior of the world.
And people make up the church…people are the bride of Christ.
The most beautiful thing about the bride is that she has received the sweetest grace ever given. She is covered by a blood that makes her spotless and white as snow. She is robed in a righteousness not of her own. She is made radiant and whole by a King who lavishes love on her.
In south and central Bulgaria this month, I’ve seen her beauty reflected in the faces of so many precious people. They pursue the heart of God. They love well right where they are living. They give generously because they want to, not because they have to. The stories of how God has changed their lives are inspiring.
It’s a gift to be here. Why do I have this honor to travel, serve, and meet the faces of the nations?
Again, His grace…
I don’t take this blessing lightly. I’ve been so privileged to meet them, work along side them, love them, and be loved by them. The selfless kind of love that the bride of Christ gives because she has freely received it herself.
I’m glad I was wrong about the bride…
…because that means He is right again. I love God’s faithfulness, and I’m thankful that I have this opportunity to meet more of the church around the world. She always points back to my amazing God who rescued me, saved me, and loved me. Period. Whether I’m at my worst or best.
He longs to know you and lavish the same love on you.
If you haven’t met Him yet, I hope you will one day soon.
And His beloved bride…well, she’s radiant. And I know you’ll love her, too.
There’s much more to tell, and as the Lord helps me process all I’ve experienced here, I’ll continue to share. Thank you for praying, giving, and joining this journey.
~Bekah~
