Till Death Do Us Part

Last weekend, I attended the wedding of a friend’s daughter.  I absolutely love weddings and firmly believe in the formality of a ceremony and all of the festivities.  There’s something about reciting the vows in front of family and friends and sharing your joy with others that signifies the event.  I was so honored to be invited.  I don’t believe there was a stone left unturned in the preparation of this wedding.  My friend coordinated an amazing event for her daughter – down to the last detail – even kissed by mother nature.  Who would have thought that planning an outdoor wedding (almost a year in advance) in the midwest on October 30 would yield a day of sunshine, 72 degrees, and no wind!  But that’s not all – a string quartet playing Canon in D on the grounds of a country mansion just before sunset (I think you get the picture).

I can think of two other weddings that stand out in my mind like this one – both several years ago.  One was a Christmas wedding.  This was my first experience of hearing only strings for the music selection.  The music was as captivating as the Christmas tree adorned with wedding lace, tulle, and white lights standing at attention on the platform awaiting the wedding party as the bride’s brothers in full military uniform escorted everyone to their seats.  Then there was the wedding of a friend who married somewhat later in life – what a special day for her.  It was my hometown church, decent size, and seated to capacity.  The bride and groom dismissed each row and, more specifically, greeted each person as they left their seat – what a personal touch.

As I reflect on these weddings, I realize that the couples are still together.  While many marriages end in broken vows, they seem to be on the road of “till death do us part” – the way God intended.   I’m sure that love, self-sacrifice, and commitment have sustained them.  But may I also suggest that perhaps they weighed carefully through prayer and Godly counsel their choice?   Taking time to make sure that God is the one bringing you together will make it easier to walk together as one for a lifetime.