The Wedding Page

Saturday was a joyous occasion as I had the privilege to officiate the wedding of Clifton and Joanna. The stage was filled with sixteen bridesmaids dressed in pink tea length dresses and groomsmen in black tuxedos. Beautiful silver candelabras completed the stage and the auditorium was decorated with white candles creating a romantic atmosphere. At the reception we feasted on chilled jumbo shrimp, platters of fruit & cheese, strawberries dipped in a chocolate fountain, and a delicious red velvet cake. What a celebration!

One of the highlights for Diana and I was visiting with many who were in our youth group “back in the day”. There were fifteen former members of the group who came to celebrate the wedding. They now have gone on to different lives, and although we don’t want to live in the past the memories were wonderful. They were and are a very special group for whom we pray the Lord’s richest and deepest blessings as they seek His face and live “radically” for Him.

I failed to mention that this was my first opportunity to officiate a wedding and with it came the privilege of what to emphasize. Here is a sampling of those comments:
* “As a congregation…You are accountable to do everything in your power to see that this union remains solid and strong, happy and prosperous, and lived according to God's Word.”

* “Paul likens marriage to the holy, mystical union which exists between Christ and His Church… Our spiritual life from beginning to end is grounded in our union with Him.”

* “…you are making a deliberate promise to be faithful and true to each other… a new dimension is added when such a pledge to each other is acknowledged in the presence of God, family and friends, and phrased in the form of a sacred vow.”

* “May the promise of Psalm 32:8 guide you, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.”