Saying "I Do"

A formal wedding is a grand opportunity for things to go awry.
The best man may lose the rings. The DJ may cancel at the last minute. The groom may get the hiccups in the midst of his vows. The bride may be unable to stop crying. An outdoor wedding may be “blessed” with an unexpected gift when a bird flies over.
But the moment the bride and groom look into each other’s eyes and affirm their love for each other, nothing else really matters. They leave arm in arm to enter a new life together — even if the wrong song is playing. 
This is much like life in the church. It’s easy to get caught up in church activities, business meetings, and fundraising. But the central purpose of the church is to experience the love of Jesus, and to share that love with others.
This was the identifying mark of the first Christians. They had none of the trappings we consider necessary for a “church.” But they had a strong bond that held them together in times of persecution and privation. They carried the glow of total devotion to Christ and His cause. They had said “I do” to the Savior.
When all else is taken away, what really matters? The love of God shed abroad in our hearts. Love that overlooks petty differences and provides a protecting wall for all who step inside the circle of fellowship. Love that enables  us to face life together with God’s power.