Friday June 17, 2011
Speaker: Nick Wallsteadt
Theme: What I Learned at a Wedding
Read: Psalm 19:8; Psalm 86:15; Ephesians 5:25-27;
Think: Pastor Nick spoke this weekend about his recent wedding to Krissa and how his role in the ceremony was more akin to a prop than a place of honor. It's a bit of a joke of course, but it's pretty universally acknowledged that all eyes are focused on the bride, and for good reason; she will look radiant; and she will be the most beautiful woman in the church that day.
It got me to thinking about how Jesus looks at us, His Church. We are His bride!! Yep Nick, in the world of our Saviour you are front and center, so is Krissa...His eyes are focused squarely upon you. No more prop, no more back seat. In Ephesians 5:25-27 Jesus assures us that we will walk down the aisle, spotless and blameless, certain that we will be beautiful and radiant. His sacrifice on the cross cleansed us so that each of us can be that bride, presented purely without stain. No matter what we have done in the past, he is ready to "marry" us just as we are. It's true. He paid the price, but we have to say “I do”.
Too often I fail to acknowledge or embrace the true Joy that should be a result of Jesus as groom, and we His church as His bride. His pursuit and desire for me is unlike any other love we can experience.
But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalm 86:15
As great as ones wedding may be, it is just the start of something better. Lately I have been moved by the songs and story of Danny Gokey. You might remember him as a finalist on American Idol several years ago. Danny lost his wife of 12 years when complications ensued after having heart surgery. Danny speaks openly about his faith and how it has sustained him through the peaks and valleys that life throws at us. I got a chance to hear Danny sing recently here in Seattle, and he sang a song called “My best days are ahead of me". As I listened to him sing I was stuck by this young man’s life, losing the love of his life, and yet here he was singing his BEST days are ahead!! And then it really hit me, Danny can sing and believe that because he lives on the promises of the Lord. Those promises transcend our wedding days, and the darkest days of our lives. It was a shining example of walking by faith, and trusting in the promises of the Lord.
Pray: Heavenly Father, you desire me more than I can possibly know. Whether it is my wedding day, or my darkest day, I can trust your promise that you can, and will present me as spotless and blameless. Today I choose You – I do. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
The eDevotional is written each week by a team of volunteers from Timberlake Church.