I Do

Jake was wooing me. Over meals, on walks and through talks Jake shared with me who he was, what he believed in, and where he felt he was headed in this life. He told me he loved me. Then he asked me to marry him. Would I be joined with him forever in love, life and purpose? I have to admit his proposal was a little scary. I knew that Jake was a man who would think nothing of living without electricity in the African bush. If I said “yes” where would he take me? What would I end up doing?

I couldn’t know that. I could only believe and trust. Believe that he loved me and trust his love to blanket each decision he made about us. When I stood at the altar and said “yes” to Jake I wasn’t placing my trust in a wedding ring, a special ceremony or even in the “institute of marriage.” I was trusting in him.

Jesus came into our world. He has shown us who he is. We see that he is brave and kind, that he saves people from horrible things, that he always forgives, and that he loves to the death. Jesus has invited us to accept his love and join him in his purpose. We can’t know ahead of time all the places he will lead us, but we can know that his plans for us will be covered in his love. When we say “yes” to Jesus, we’re not trusting in a cross around our necks, a special prayer or ceremony, or even in the “institute of religion.” We are trusting in Him.

Jesus has said, “I love you. I will never leave you.” He’s made his promises. He said, “I do.” Will you?

                           “…we know and rely on the love God has for us.” 1 John 4:16