What Is Marriage #5A
The Covenant Continues
Links:
What Is Marriage #1A (Dad Explains) Questions on what marriage is / How marriage has changed / Legal vs. Religious Questions
What Is Marriage #1B (Von) Asked and answered “Is Marriage Real?”
What Is Marriage #2A (Dad Explains) Expands on marriage being real within the framework of “names” or nomenclature.
What Is Marriage #2B (Von) Marriage is a sexual union. That’s not all it is (by a long chalk), but that is its core.
What is Marriage #3A (Dad Explains) Asks the question, “Is marriage solely about children or are children a critical part of marriage itself?” and raises the spectre of infertile couples.
What is Marriage #3B (Von) “Marriage is… ordained by God for the purpose of producing a Godly seed…”
What is Marriage #4A (Dad Explains) Andrew summarizes a bunch of his thoughts and adds several aspects
What is Marriage #4B (Von) Marriage is a covenant. Also, post more scripture!
Tapestry
In the tapestry of our ongoing dialogue, Von, we've woven intricate patterns of thought, belief, and understanding about the essence of marriage. While our threads sometimes diverge, they always return to a shared core: marriage as a sacred covenant. This isn't just a bond between two souls but a trinity of commitment involving God Himself.
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." - Matthew 18:20
Your recent piece, "What is Marriage #4B," beautifully elucidated the covenantal nature of marriage. It's a promise, a commitment, a vow not just between two individuals but also with the Divine.
This covenantal nature is what sets marriage apart, elevating it from other relationships. It's not merely about companionship, procreation, or societal norms but a profound commitment to uphold the values and principles set by God.
Building on this foundation, I'd like to delve deeper into the idea of commitment in marriage. In our rapidly changing world, where relationships are often transient and fleeting, what does it truly mean to stay committed in a marriage? How does this commitment, this unwavering dedication, mirror our covenant with God?
Commitment as a Choice
Every sunrise presents us with a choice. It's a choice to love, to cherish, to honor, and to stay committed to our partner. This isn't a decision swayed by the ebb and flow of emotions or the challenges of daily life.
Instead, it's rooted in a profound understanding of the covenant we've entered. Just as we choose to believe, to have faith, and to walk the path God has set for us, we choose every day to uphold the vows we've made to our partner.
"But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." - Joshua 24:15
Commitment in Adversity
Life, in all its unpredictability, often throws curveballs our way. Financial strains, health challenges, emotional upheavals – these are but a few of the storms that marriages weather. It's during these turbulent times that the strength of our commitment is truly tested.
But, as Proverbs 17:17 says, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
In the crucible of challenges, the gold of our commitment is refined, emerging purer and stronger. By leaning on each other and on God, we not only weather these storms but emerge stronger, our bond deepened.
"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." - Ecclesiastes 4:12
Commitment to Growth
Marriage is a living entity. Like all living things, it grows, evolves, and changes. Both partners embark on individual journeys of growth, and the marriage itself evolves. Commitment, in this context, means nurturing this growth.
It's about understanding, supporting, and celebrating each other's individual journeys and ensuring that the collective journey of the marriage is on a path of continuous evolution. It's about ensuring that as the years roll by, the bond doesn't just endure but thrives.
"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." - Matthew 19:6
Commitment Reflects Our Bond with God
Every act of commitment in our marriage is a reflection of our bond with God. By staying true to our vows, by honoring and cherishing our partner, we mirror the commitment we've made to our faith.
Every challenge we overcome, every joy we share, every moment we cherish is a testament to the strength of this threefold bond – man, woman, and God.
"Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always." - Deuteronomy 11:1
Finally
In conclusion, while the definitions, obligations, and theological underpinnings of marriage are undeniably crucial, it's the underlying commitment that truly defines this sacred bond. This commitment is both a mirror of our faith and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Von, as we continue this enlightening exchange, I pose a question for your contemplation:
In a world where commitments are often fleeting, how do we ensure that the sanctity and permanence of the marital covenant are upheld?
How do we, as a society and as individuals, nurture and protect this sacred bond in the face of modern challenges?
"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." - Hebrews 10:23
I eagerly await your insights and reflections, and as always, I cherish this dialogue as a beacon of light and understanding in our shared journey of faith and life.
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