Becoming One with Lord 

   “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” (Matt 19: 5) 

   When we were married my wife and I included a candle ceremony in our wedding Mass.  There was a candelabra with three candles, two of which were lit and a third that was not.  We each took one of the lit candles and together we lit the third and then extinguished the two.  The ceremony was meant to symbolize our joining in marriage, the two becoming one.

   Like most couples we faced difficult times in our marriage.  But the thought of giving up never entered our minds.  We were, as nearly as possible, two who had become one for life.  To violate that pledge made before God and witnesses was not an option.  Still today, though she has gone before me, I consider that we are one in love and will be throughout eternity.

   Throughout the bible our relationship with God is compared to matrimony.  Christ is the Bridegroom and His church the bride.  We are invited to be wed to our savior as in marriage.  I find this a beautiful way of viewing Christianity.

   We will face difficulties and trials in life but if we have truly given ourselves to God we are like a faithful married couple; we will work through the difficulties confident of the love and mercy of our Groom, Jesus Christ.  Nothing is strong enough to break that bond except our own pride and sinfulness.  Even then He will again welcome us home through our repentance and confession of our sins.

   Envision you and Christ taking the two lit candles and lighting the third.  Then extinguish your candle and live as one with Christ. 

Lord You are the Bridegroom.

We the bride.

Let us know the glory of Your love.

Let us become one with You. 

Amen