This word is submitted by Jack McKinstry (jackmck@netzone.com)

Joy and Rapture
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The day is dawning when the light of Jesus shall shine forth in great splendor from within the church, the body of Christ. No longer shall the church be the object of jokes, be maligned, or be disparaged in any way whatsoever. The power and glory of the church of Jesus Christ shall shine forth in awesome wonder for all to see. The bride of Christ shall arise before the face of all men resplendent in garments of grace and righteousness. Her glory shall be great, a masterpiece of God's great love and grace.

The day is dawning when the love of Christ shall be made manifest before the face of all peoples through the church. With great power, the presence of the Lord shall invade whole communities and regions. The Lord on high shall descend in the power of the Holy Spirit to gather to Himself such as will be saved. Great grace shall be upon the redeemed of the Lord. Great repentance shall grip the hearts and lives of many.

Proclaim the way of the Lord. Prepare for His soon return. Turn to the Lord your God while He may be found. Separate yourselves from the wickedness and idolatry of the world. Turn from your evil ways for you shall be holy and without spot or wrinkle.

The Lord shall come suddenly and your offences shall pierce your heart of hearts. The holiness of the Lord shall expose your waywardness. You shall be cleansed in the blood of the Lamb for sinners slain. But in a flash, terror and sorrow shall signal His approaching holiness. Joy shall follow sorrow as you are caught up on the wings of the Spirit. Great joy shall be yours. Yet you shall know in your joy that greater joy could have been yours had you been more diligent in your love for Christ, had you given greater allegiance to the King of kings. Oh, the sweet mystery of sorrow and joy, the transcendent knowledge of the could have been, shall, in a flash, give way to the awesome presence of love personified, to the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. You shall be caught up in the Lord. You shall be changed. Joy and rapture shall be yours.

Press on, dearly beloved. Press on. Spend yourselves for Christ Jesus. Darkness is gathering and the days of distress are approaching. Great calamity shall come upon the earth.

Call upon the Lord while He is near. Stand your ground. The glory of the Lord shall arise and come upon you as the bride of Christ is prepared for her consummation.