Our lives are in God’s hands. I love to attend a wedding that is well-planned, beautiful, and meaningful. But the ceremony is only the beginning. Preparing for the marriage is at least as important, if not more important. Share your goals and dreams, get sound, premarital counseling, and live within your means. Take your vows seriously and be committed for your lifetime.

“We are gathered here in the sight of God to witness the uniting in marriage of Frank and Beth. We believe marriage to be holy and instituted of God; it is a relationship built upon their love for each other and their mutual relationship to Jesus Christ. It is not to be taken lightly, but to be entered into reverently, discreetly, advisedly, and in recognition of their responsibility to God.”

Marriage is the first institution established by God after creation. It is a meant to be a public and permanent relationship to one another before God and witnesses. The Bible describes marriage as an image of God’s relationship with His people, Israel, and Christ’s relationship with the body of His followers, the Church.

We’ve had our “better” and “worse” times. We are two unique people, and sometimes our wills have clashed. Although poor in material things, we’ve been rich in love, family, and friends. We haven’t avoided sickness, but we’ve been blessed with years of good health. God has also rewarded us with children (and their spouses) and grandchildren.

I’d do marriage with Frank all over again. He’s the love of my life and my best friend. He promised to accept, love, and support me, and he has, even though I’m not always easy to get along with.

Only God knows how many more sunrises and sunsets we’ll see together.

     

www.bethewestcott.com