Sacred Marriage

Over the Christmas break, I aspire to read books that have been waiting on my shelf for my eye and pen. Sacred Marriage, by Gary Thomas, finally got the read it deserved. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Does God have more for marriage than a dutiful commitment to remain until death effectively separates? While other marriage books focus on practical issues, encompassed in marriage, like communication, parenting, finances and sex, Sacred Marriage primarily focuses on a theological view of marriage and its details. Calling into question our purpose in marrying, Gary Thomas succeeds in introducing a kaleidoscope view of marriage centering around the opportunity to be refined by the Father.

Every encounter, conflict and event of marriage has opportunity to teach us and draw us nearer to the God we profess and love. Marriage provides a place for sin to be exposed - scary as it may be. Struggling and conflict teach forgiveness.

Thomas lays out the idea of building a sacred history; a story to be treasured, and not disregarded. This sacred history is a tool to teach perseverance. Thomas advocates what he calls "falling forward." He promotes moving toward your spouse, in love, compassion, forgiveness, all the while recognizing they are married to a flawed human being, as well. As one continues to fall forward, servitude is brought into focus. Marriage is fertile ground to cultivate the servant heart displayed by our Savior.

Perhaps one of the most encouraging chapters deals with becoming more aware of God's presence, through marriage. As spiritual insights develop from your sexual relationship, with your spouse, and character develops from everyday struggles, a sensitivity, to God and His moving, grows. Being aware of God's presence lends itself to seeing your marriage with a mission. Your marriage has purpose. A calling and mission is laid out for you and your spouse. Gary Thomas reins all his efforts into helping your realize that, while your calling is unique in aspects, holiness is a common denominator of all purpose in marriage.

Gary Thomas' straight-forward, thick, some times dry style of writing may prove to be more difficult to sail through; but, give it your full attention. Let this be a step towards more fully recognizing marriage as a beautiful picture, painted by God, to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church. Begin to see your marriage as a Gospel issue. Know that aiming for less than displaying God's redemptive work, in your life and marriage, is handicapping the potential for joy in the life of your marriage. Recognize that if you choose to give up, to quit, you are playing in to Satan's hand and excitement of marring the Gospel displayed in the most passionate, beautiful actualization embedded in creation. And, if you are single, like me, read this book and know that if God calls you into marriage, you can enter with a weapon to fight against the Enemy and for the glorification of Christ.

~Sarah