Blest Be the Tie That Binds
Paul and Janet Kauffman celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary earlier this month. They were married by the Rev. John McLachlan in 1970 when Oak Chapel’s sanctuary was practically brand new. During the past half-century, their relationship has been a testimony to their faith and their desire to place Jesus Christ at the center of their union.
When Paul proudly made the announcement during our worship service a few weeks ago, it made me wonder how different our relationships with others would be if Jesus were at the center of each one.
The old saying, “Two’s Company, Three’s a Crowd,” really doesn’t apply when it comes to our meaningful relationships. In fact, three is the perfect number, provided that Jesus is art of that union. For when He is at the center of a relationship, the prospects for open dialogue, cleansing forgiveness, and long-term reconciliation are much greater.
The presence of Jesus is particularly critical in marriage, as Paul and Janet have so clearly demonstrated for us. We all face challenges, even occasional crises, in our marriages, but if both parties are willing to yield to Jesus, the probability that husband
and wife will be able to resolve their differences and strengthen their bond will grow
exponentially.
If you are married, or if you are thinking about getting married, be sure to invite Jesus into your covenant. He will guide you through the storms, light your paths in times of darkness, and rejoice with you during times of celebration.
Of course, you don’t have to limit Him to your marriage. Welcome Him also into your relationships with your sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, grandfathers and grandmothers, friends and neighbors, and, yes, even antagonists and outright enemies. Granted, those may be a little more difficult because often others refuse to allow Jesus to have access to their lives, much less their relationships. But fear not, be faithful and prayerful because He can help to heal any relationship, no matter how estranged or shattered it might be.
So, the question for all of us to consider is this: “Where is Jesus in your relationships with others?” Perhaps there is someone in your life with whom you would like to reconcile. Make it a point to do so before much more time passes because none of us is guaranteed tomorrow.
The world tells us that when we humble ourselves, we become small. But the Lord says the opposite. When we humble ourselves, we stand tall. Where do you stand right now? We’ve all been through a lot these past five months. Maybe we can help lift one another up, even if we have been quarreling recently, even if we have been arguing incessantly, even if we have not spoken for years. Don’t be afraid to make the first move, but before you dial the phone or send a text, reach out to Jesus first, and ask him to lead the way.
As the storied hymn suggests, “When we asunder part, it gives us inward pain; but we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again.”
Until we meet again, Be Blessed! – Pastor John