There are few experiences in life that are special enough to
leave a lasting impression, but a few weeks ago, I went to one of the sweetest
weddings I have ever attended. There
were many reasons that it was so special and so memorable, but the most
important difference in this wedding and other weddings was the acknowledged
presence of Jesus in every part of the wedding festivities. The whole weekend, friends that spoke on
behalf of this couple, repeated the same things over and over. Katie and Austin love Jesus and they live it
every day. Katie’s brother in law
expressed his tremendous concern about Katie ever dating anyone because she
lived her life to such a standard and was so good. He wondered if anyone would ever be good
enough for Katie and he meant that in the most sincere and respectful way. I was moved to know that everyone who knew Katie
thought that she was one of the closest outward expressions of Jesus that we
ever see here on earth. The groom was no
less impressive. He was also commended
on his drive and tenacity to spread the word and help others live a more
fulfilled Christian life. Every person that
spoke of Austin mentioned his complete desire to know Jesus and make him
known. One of Austin’s friends actually
talked about playing video games with him while listening to Austin’s favorite
sermons played aloud. I kept feeling
inspired and challenged by what a powerful ministry team these two will be as
husband and wife.
It wasn’t actually said out loud, but we all knew that this
couple had waited to do everything in the right order. They had waited for marriage as the Bible
instructs us to do. They had prayed
their way through their dating relationship and Austin had even given Katie a
Bible with her married name on it as he proposed to her before leading her in
prayer. It was evident to everyone that the
ties that bind them, even on their first day as one, are so incredibly strong
because the ties are rooted in Jesus. The
consistency of their story inspired me.
I contemplated the unique blessings that must be on a marriage where
everything is done in the right order. I
dreamed of my girls, who are growing up in this broken society, and prayed that
they would both wait on God for their mate and then do everything in the right
order. I worry about our young people
growing up in a society that has so warped the covenant of marriage and
exploited the gifts God has given to us in marriage. Katie and Austin reassure us that God’s
entire perfect plan is still attainable for those who will wait upon Him. What an incredible example!
I am sure that Austin and Katie will face struggles in their
marriage. There will be rough times and
sad times, and disconnected times, but I wonder…maybe the blessing of doing it
God’s way is truly the tie that binds forever.
In our fast food society where divorce is as acceptable as going through
a drive through window for a meal, maybe the blessing that was so evident in
watching Austin and Katie create their covenant with God is the absence of
baggage in their relationship. There is
nothing to question or to wonder or to worry about. It was right, it was real, and it was truly
an opportunity to see into God’s very best expectations for us when we do it His
way. I am writing this blog entry
because I want Austin and Katie to know that their example was a blessing, even
to the old married folks in the crowd.
It is a pleasure to look towards the future for Austin and Katie. I cannot wait to watch the blessings continue
to unfold. Thank you for letting us be
part of your special day!
