Wedding: Heather and Warren

Introduction

Country has gone coronavirus mad, with good reason

We have the opportunity to celebrate the joyous union of Warren and Heather

Request to focus on something from Esther, time of Purim

Importance of marriage

There are some similarities between marriage and coronovirus

CV is 10 time more dangerous than flu; marriage is 10ntimes harder than dating

CV attacks your lungs; in marriage you may find that you want to steal your spouse’s breath away by throttling them, while at other times your breath will by taken away by the sheer love you have for your partner

One of the biggest similarities is that CV is a reason for people to hide away; the failure of marriages can also be a reason to lose hope in this glorious gift from God

The odds are stacked against you

But this is a gift given by God, and is worth fighting for

The story of Esther gives us a picture of confidence despite the situation

The story of Esther shows us how trusting in God will see us through the trials ahead of us

Priority of marriage

Put God first - the more you love Him, the more you will love each other

Do not expect each other to be your fortress and hiding place; you will serve each other as helpers and refining fires -mGod will use this relationship to deal with the dross

Understand that you two don’t deserve each other, this is a covenant made in grace; if you understand your own failings as you walk into the marriage, so that you can celebrate grace and forgiveness more when your partner fails

Supporting the marriage

Parents it is time to let go

For those married, you know the battle ahead - pray and support; be realistic about the hardships and focus on the positives

For those not married, view this as a declaration of the hope marriage offered

For everyone here, understand your gift giving as a commitment to support and uphold them