This book is a call to hopeful mourning. When we are separated for too long from someone we deeply love, were left with a stinging ache of mourning. Mourning, then, actually becomes part of loving someone.

Jesus told us that His friends would mourn when the Bridegroom was taken from them (Matthew 9:15). We are living in the time of delay between His first and second comings, and these are indeed days of aching and grieving. But we do not lament His death, for Jesus is alive. So what does it mean for us to mourn for our Bridegroom?

We are strangers in this world, on a pilgrimage until the day we see Him. We endure the groan of hunger and the more painful parts of loving Him. As we fast and pray, we refuse to accept the way things are in this evil age. Amidst the lethargy of our Western, modern, religious landscape, yearning for our Bridegroom is a witness to others that He is more than a name, more than a religion. He is a Person, so majestic in beauty and kindness that our hearts are torn by love for Him. If we love Him, will we not miss Him? If we truly know Him, is it possible to be content living life without morning for Him?

In Mourning for the Bridegroom, Dana Candler explores the suffering we endure until Jesus returns, giving both language and practical application for all believers who are living in the delay.

Table of Contents

Dedication

Endorsements

Foreword by Mike Bickle

Chapter 1: Mourning for the Bridegroom

Chapter 2: Knowing Him

Chapter 3: Embracing the Groan

Chapter 4: Beholding the One We Long For

Chapter 5: Thirsting for Him

Chapter 6: Fighting Dullness of Heart

Chapter 7: Mourning in Fasting

Chapter 8: Living as Strangers

Chapter 9: Loving His Return

Works Cited

Endorsements

With clear insight, Dana boldly yet tenderly addresses the discrepancy between loving Jesus and actually longing for His return, while at the same time offering a clear road map to the lifestyle that Jesus prescribed a lifestyle of prayer, fasting, and living hungry for Him.

Mike Bickle, Director, International House of Prayer of Kansas City

As I began to read Danas book, I found that I was not only reading about Danas journey and Danas longing for His return; it also began to stir my own heart in a new way to watch and wait. It is as if her words walked right up to the door of my heart and took residence. I believe it will do the same for you. I highly recommend this book.

Julie Meyer, worship leader, International House of Prayer of Kansas City

About the Author

Dana Candler lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with her husband Matt and their three children. She and Matt serve on the leadership team at the International House of Prayer. Dana is also an instructor at the International House of Prayer University, a full-time Bible school. She is the author of Deep unto Deep: The Journey of His Embrace and Entirety: Love Gives All, and coauthor of The Rewards of Fasting: Experiencing the Power and Affections of God.