{ Day 34 }

Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them. —John 17:24-26

My love for Diane and my desire to be with her have helped me understand the love Christ felt for His bride. I remember when I noticed this beautiful, young, blonde girl across the room. I flipped out! I had never felt such intense emotions as I gazed across the room at Diane, the girl who was to become my wife. Christ’s prayer in John 17 especially moves me. Only hours before His agonizing death at Calvary, my Lord was crying out to the Father with intense cravings for His bride—for me!

{ PRAYER STARTER }

Father, I long to be where You are. I want to be Your Son’s holy and spotless bride, prepared to share eternity in the wonder of Your presence.

He was consumed with love for His bride
and longed to have His bride
with Him for eternity.