Mac expresses gratitude for gathering again and emphasizes the importance of being ready for the Lord's return. He notes that the theme for this year is "entering into the joy of the Lord," derived from Matthew 25, specifically the parables of the ten virgins and the talents. Mac highlights the significance of being spiritually prepared, as the Lord is calling His people to wake up amidst the current deceptions in Christianity. He discusses three key aspects: perspective, passion, and preparation for entering into the joy of the Lord. The focus should be on what brings joy to God's heart rather than our own joy. Mac encourages believers to see the joy of the Lord as a source of strength, especially in challenging times. He stresses the need for a transformation from self-centeredness to Christ-centeredness, which is essential for a deeper relationship with the Lord. The call to be ready is urgent, as the Lord's return is imminent. Mac concludes by urging the audience to reflect on their motivations and to seek a deeper understanding of God's joy, which should guide their lives and interactions with others.
6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.
14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;