By: Carole L. Haines

 Therefore, if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, ² make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.
(Philippians 2:1-2 NASB) 

The ceremony was perfect, a Winter Wonderland of joy. Laughing, happy faces on both Bride and Groom mingled with the tears of joy in the eyes of us all. Picture time, and I turn to find my son’s now Mother in Love, grasping my hands and looking straight into my eyes. The words that fell from her lips brought tears to my eyes and such a deep sense of sacred honor. She vowed to love my son, to treasure him, to not criticize him in any way.

Her words brought to my mind the critical spirit that I can sometimes have. The conviction of the Holy Spirit came over me like a warm and loving embrace, as through tears I replied to her in a shaking voice, “Me too!” I realized that I just made a vow before God to love my new daughter in love with honor and to treasure her with my heart, and to not criticize her.

My heart bowed in silence before God, as I marveled at this amazing woman before me, whose purity and commitment sealed my own conviction to do the same for all my new family and my other two children’s spouses. It was a Holy Moment I shall never forget. God once revealed to me that we, as the Body of Christ, should remember that as we address each other, we are addressing Christ within one another. This was one of those moments and it brought back a sense of reverence for Jesus in you, me, and all who believe on Him, calling Him Lord. I will treasure this woman and her commitment to Jesus and seek to become more like her. Thank you, Carol.