I don't like weddings! I just don't. I love marriage, but weddings drive me crazy!
Most weddings really aren't about the bride, they are about the bride's mother and grandmother and any other woman who happens to be present and is happy to share their opinion. I've seen too many brides-to-be reduced to tears at their rehearsal because of their opinionated, forceful, inconsiderate friends and family. (Not all wedding rehearsals are like that - but most are...)
Weddings are stressful, expensive, and always on Saturdays.
Too many couples prepare more for the wedding than they do for the marriage (so much I'd like to say here, but it will have to wait).
All that said, there is something profound about standing next to the groom as his bride walks down the aisle! It's my favorite part of every wedding I've participated in as the pastor. There is a tangible sense of awe, anticipation, excitement, gratefulness, and pride.
I have a friend who was a pastor for almost 50 years - he used to tell us, "There's no such thing as an ugly bride." After performing countless weddings, I would have to agree with him.
As a pastor, it's an honor to stand with a young man who is watching his beautiful bride approach.
As a pastor, it's an honor to stand with Jesus as he adores his bride!
I've always wondered why Scripture calls the church the "Bride of Christ." I don't think I will ever understand it completely, but two things I know for sure: 1. There is no such thing as an ugly bride; 2. Jesus loves his bride!
It's easy to get down on The Church or the church you attend. It's easy to focus on the flaws and point out the problems. I'm thinking maybe that's not such a great idea.
If you come to me griping about my bride's flaws and problems I'm probably going to punch you in the throat (with the love of Jesus, of course)!
I wonder how Jesus feels when people like me come to him with complaints about His bride. I wonder how Jesus feels when His bride is overlooked, neglected, disparaged, discredited, disrespected, and devalued.
I love the church. I love my church. I love every church who proclaims Jesus alone for salvation!
I believe in the church. I believe in my church. I believe the church is the greatest source for good, creativity, impact, and change that the world has ever seen!
Jesus loves His bride - so should I - so should you!
I stand with the Groom. How about you?
