Marthe

When Marthe got married, she questioned why my “congratulatory” note to her was so long and why my message to her husband was so very short. I don’t remember what I wrote to her or how long it really was, but I do remember the message to her husband. I quoted Ephesians 5:25, which says, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her…”

I don’t remember if I said anything else to him, but that would have been enough. As a husband, this verse of scripture has and continues to stir a lot of emotions within me. As a young man, I would have really appreciated it if Paul had said the first part of the sentence without the qualifier. I would have been very content if Paul had just said, “Husbands love your wives” PERIOD. Instead, Paul brings men this admonishment, “just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” What a sobering thought!

It was on this understanding, that I entered my marriage covenant. On one hand I was anxious and fearful because of the tremendous, heavy, and awesome responsibility that I was taking on. On the other hand, this statement has also brought great joy and relief because it reminds me of what Jesus has done and continues to do for me. Separated from this qualifier, husbands stand alone. Having this qualifier, men are not only connected to their wives, but are joined together not only with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but the lover of our souls!