Daily Devotional

September 12th, 2024
by Karon Cecy

Marriage Renewal

Matthew 5:14–16 - “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

The moon is full. The stars twinkle as if to say, “Look at me”. Reeds along the shore sway in the gentle breeze. Underfoot the tiny shells on the shore crackle as we walk on them. Water lapping on the shore sings a musical note. The Sea of Galilee, in Israel is putting on a display of beauty this evening. Across the Sea is a city on a hill lit up with flickering lights. It seems to join us as a witness to this solemn event. What a wonderous place to hold a marriage renewal.

The couples begin their slow procession to the shore to join my husband and I for this ceremony fashioned after a Jewish wedding. Gathered in a semi-circle in front of us, Jim begins by declaring that the stars are our chuppah, or covering this evening. As he weaves his teaching into our hearts, the couples are captivated by the moment. Turning to repeat their vows, the couples’ expressions are full of love. Jim and I step close and gladly do the same.

On that momentous evening, I believe God in heaven was declaring, “Look what I did! Two very different people became one. Marriage displays My Oneness. My love.” Just as the city set on a hill shines its light, marriage can shine forth a powerful message. Marriage can be a witness to God’s power and love as two very different people unite as one. With God’s help, we can have a marriage that is fulfilling, secure, and a blessing. The world scoffs at marriage. We need more couples shouting the truth that marriage is worth the struggle and fight. Ask God to empower you to grow a marriage that shines the light of God’s love.

If you are struggling in your marriage, reach out for counsel. God can speak to your heart through a counselor. You are welcome to call the church office for direction. If you are a blended family or have experienced the trauma of divorce, God is always there to help you start over. I like the illustration of a broken pile of glass that can be made into a beautiful stain glass window. God can make something beautiful out of our shattered lives.

In my opinion a marriage renewal ceremony shouts, “We are not giving up! We are committed to our marriage!” A marriage renewal ceremony takes us back to the first moment we said “I do” to our vows made before God. After over 50 years of marriage, I can testify that it is worth all the hard work and commitment. Praise God for marriage!

PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS, AND TEACHERS:

Talk about the city on the hill in Matthew 5:14–16. Explain that one of the ways we can direct people to God is through our marriage. Ask your kids to pray for your marriage to be a good example to others of God’s love.
Share with your kids your love story. Be honest about the fact it is a struggle at times, but God helps us to grow in our marriage. Explain to your kids what a marriage renewal is.

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Posted in Daily Devotionals
Posted in Karon Cecy