The English language apparently is inadequate for all of life’s situations. You have to learn some Italian to play the piano (Allegro! Andante!), German when somebody sneezes (Gesundheit!), and French to answer a wedding invitation (RSVP-Respondez s’il vous plait). It is considered very rude to fail to respond to this important piece of paper. If you are chosen to join the select groups of family and friends at a wedding, you are shown great value. If you blow them off, you show that they are of low value to you.

The Bible compares Jesus Christ to a heavenly bridegroom and the church (i.e., all believers together) as his bride. He is making preparations for the bridal procession and coming soon to gather us together for the grand feast. In the meantime, the Bible brings the invitation to believe in Christ and to prepare for his return. It comes with an RSVP: “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come!’ Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life” (Revelation 22:16,17).

Don’t put off answering. Do it now. You are guaranteed no tomorrows—today might be the last day of your life. Pray with me: Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me enough to want me in your heavenly mansions. Thank you for the beautiful clothes of righteousness that you bought for me. I accept your invitation with great pleasure and eagerly await the feast. Amen.

Come soon, Lord Jesus.