I attended a wedding this weekend. An outdoor wedding in an orchard with apples hanging overhead an occasionally dropping on one of the wooden pews with a heavy thunk. It was more fall-like than late summer, with storm clouds looming, but no rain came, and along with looking beautiful, this bride was glowing with love and happiness. Her groom even wept with joy. What struck me were the insightful and inspiring comments of the officiant for this wedding, who challenged the couple to not wish for, nor expect perfection. Unattainable in a marriage, he was making the point that instead forgiveness, grace, and a willingness to love one another despite their imperfections was infinitely more Christ-like. On a cloudy day threatening rain, it seemed the perfect reminder that into all our lives come rainy days, imperfection and the brokenness of being truly human. Thanks be to God we have the example of Jesus, who loves us in spite of our sinfulness, brokenness and doubt. By faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we live at peace with God. Christ has also introduced us to God’s undeserved kindness on which we take our stand. So we are happy, as we look forward to sharing in the glory of God. But that’s not all! We gladly suffer because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love. Romans 5: 1-5, CEV Even the incomparable Gene Kelly, who danced and sang the original Singing in the Rain, had a fever and a bad cold during the six days it took to film the magical scene. Love this version of the song by jazz musician Jamie Callum: https://youtube/watch?v=j2gdspwq_qw How are you responding to the imperfections in your day? Have you thanked God for the strength to endure recently?
Posted on: Mon, 25 Aug 2014 15:53:33 +0000
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