DAY 15 - Marriage: A Sacred Union

Scripture Reading – Genesis 2:18-25

In Genesis 2 we find a close-up of the first wedding ever celebrated. It took place in Paradise at the beginning of history. The first bride and groom, Adam and Eve, were surrounded by the unstained, breathtaking beauty of God’s creation.

Most impressive about that first wedding, though, was that God himself conducted the ceremony: “the LORD God made a woman … and he brought her to the man.” This is the Bible’s way of telling us that marriage is from God, established as a creation ordinance. Marriage was not invented by a human being; it was instituted by God when he created us “male and female” (Genesis 1:27) and brought Adam and Eve together.

Marriage, then, is sacred. All who marry receive a special gift from God’s own hands. And because marriage is from God, we need to listen carefully to God’s expectations for marriage. Marriage has the God-given potential to be a powerful source of blessing to all who follow the instructions of the One who ordained it.

Marriage is a reflection of his love and commitment to his people. It is a covenant relationship that calls us to sacrificial love, selflessness, and mutual support. In a world that often prioritizes self-gratification, marriage is meant to show the beauty of sacrificial love. As husbands and wives, we are called to follow the example of Christ’s love for the church by giving ourselves fully for the well-being and flourishing of our spouse.

Marriage is a journey of growth, forgiveness, and shared experiences. It is a partnership in which two individuals strive to understand, honor, and cherish one another. It requires open communication, vulnerability, and a commitment to work through challenges together. We learn to offer encouragement, extend forgiveness, and support one another’s dreams and aspirations.

Today let’s honor the sacredness of marriage. May we embrace the call to love and serve our spouse, imitating Christ’s selfless love. Let’s cultivate a spirit of humility, understanding, and compassion in our relationships. May our marriages reflect God’s love and faithfulness, bringing glory to him and serving as a beacon of hope in a broken world.

Heavenly Father, help us to realize that marriage is from you. Give us the grace to help us make our marriages and all other relationships what you intend them to be. Grant us grace and strength to show sacrificial love. May our love testify to your faithfulness.  Amen.