Sermon from Chris and Kathleen's Wedding

Isaiah 43:1-7

Colossians 3:12-17

Sometimes we live our lives as though we are on a freeway, racing to the next destination. Either because we are frantic or stressed or afraid, we look forward and go as fast as we can to the next place. If anything gets in our way or obstructs our view we look at it with frustration and anger or we quickly become disheartened. But, sometimes we are able to take on a different view of life, not as a highway meant to be conquered but perhaps more like a river. A river with twists and turns, curves and valleys that leave us unable to see what is ahead, but maybe not so concerned about that as we enjoy the beauty of the world around us, the gentle movement of the water beneath us, a feeling of peace and tranquility, realizing we are not in control. When rough waters or rocks come we gently move past them, sometimes painfully, but with a kind of peace about us, knowing that we will keep moving and that it will be ok, floating through the waters with faith, moving through our life's journey with hope.

The reading from Isaiah is about a journey. It is God's word for a people who have been through tough times. It is about God's promise to restore God's people, to bring back the dispersed nation of Israel from the ends of the earth, to shelter and care for God's people who had seen much suffering, many twists and rough waters along the way. God is offering them words of hope, words of comfort. The prophet Isaiah writes, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” It is an invitation to walk the journey with hope, assurance and peace, knowing that God is with them.

This is the scripture that Kathleen and Chris chose when I asked them to select a Bible passage that reflects both their relationship with God and each other. I can see why it is fitting. As Chris and Kathleen shared with me their own stories and the story of how they came together I immediately thought of a journey. They have each been to many places both geographically and emotionally. They have learned what it means to say goodbye and keep going through the rough waters. They understand that the world is a big place with exciting new adventures but home, family, love and faith are their top priority. The way forward has not always been clear for them, living in different parts of the country and not knowing when they would get to share a zip code, but even though they couldn't see the final destination, they trusted the journey, enjoyed the twists and turns and looked forward to traveling it together. A journey that started at a sports bar in Florida and will now take them to an apartment in Portland with Packer by their side.

And today their journey has brought them here. Somehow from Chile, Thailand, Argentina, Peru, Florida and Portland the two of them are here in Jackson, with their friends and family, standing before God, declaring their love for one another. And so we celebrate, we celebrate all of the journey that has led them to this place and all that lies ahead. We celebrate the joy and love that they share together. Kathleen said that she loves Chris's generosity and willingness to always help others, she loves how much he values and prioritizes his family, that he always makes her feel better about herself and more secure in her decisions. She loves his sense of humor and how much he makes her laugh, and of course she loves that he is tall and handsome.

Chris loves Kathleen's smile and that she laughs at his jokes, even if they are really lame (his words). He loves spending time with her and says that even if they do nothing they still have an amazing time just talking and hanging out. He loves that she calls him Chris Turner. He loves holding her in his arms and says that “no matter how others see me, Kathleen makes me feel special.”

Today they have invited all of us to be part of their journey, to witness their love, pray for them and encourage them as they go through the mountains and valleys. And they have asked God to be part of their journey, to bless them, guide them, lead them and surround them in peace.

The other reading that Chris and Kathleen have chosen for today is from Colossians. In that reading we are called to clothe ourselves “with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” To forgive one another and to let the peace of Christ live in our hearts. And to be thankful, to give thanks to God.

In their words, in their devotion to one another I can see that Chris and Kathleen are thankful for each other, they are thankful that their journeys merged and that their future will be hand in hand. Chris and Kathleen, this passage from Colossians reminds you to stay in gratitude. Live life with thankful hearts whatever bumps may come. As the river of life twists and turns take time to enjoy the view, to celebrate the journey behind you and embrace what is to come. To remember that God is the source of love and give thanks and praise to God as you live in that love.

Right now your journey has brought you here, and in just a moment you will stand here, hand in hand and make your vows. Know that you are not alone on this journey. You are surrounded by your friends and family who love and support you -who will be here for you in your life as a husband and wife. And you are surrounded by the presence of those who have left this earth but are very much here in your love and joy, especially Kathleen's dad, who has made her who she is today.

And you are surrounded by the Holy Spirit, in you, with you, around you, behind you and before you, carrying you forward, around every twist and turn until you reach your final destination in the overflowing and everlasting love and peace of God.