#Jesus22 - Daily DevotionalsSample

One of the most important covenants you can make in your life is the marriage covenant. For me it was on July 2, 2005, on a beautiful summer day. I was finally allowed to marry my beloved bride. Afterwards, we went on our honeymoon to Cancun, Mexico for two weeks. After a few days of being there, we both got sick and when we were finally healthy again, the strongest hurricane Mexico had seen in 20 years came and we were evacuated. That's exactly how one imagines a honeymoon, very romantic.

There are many wonderful aspects to a marriage, but anyone who has been married for 16 years, as I have, also knows that there is always friction. Or battles, depending on the case...

But especially in difficult times, the covenant we made should encourage us not to give up. We read in today's passage that divorce is not an option. In the Orient, when a couple got married, they offered a sacrifice at the doorstep of the bedroom and wet the doorstep with its blood. Sometimes the blood was also wiped onto the forehead. On the wedding night, the husband would carry his bride over the threshold that was smeared with blood, expressing that God's blessing and protection should reign over the marriage. A covenant was made which was based on mutual faithfulness.

Today we live in the New Covenant (thank God). We no longer kill animals on our doorsteps or smear blood on them. But the symbolism of the ritual has a deep meaning. When Jesus shed His blood on the cross, it flowed so that everything that separated us from God could be overcome. In your marriage, too, you may experience the power of Jesus' blood again and again. You may receive forgiveness and experience how Jesus helps you to overcome the distances between you and your spouse again and again.

ACTION STEP FOR MARRIED PEOPLE

Today, celebrate the covenant you have made. Have a glass of wine together or go out to eat. If you have small children, this may not be possible on the spur of the moment. Then take out your agenda and plan a celebration.

ACTION STEP FOR SINGLES

If you want a partner, write down what is important to you in a future partner and discuss these concerns with Jesus.