Taken

Today I was able to watch the holy union/tying of the knot of a sweet friend of mine and her brand-new husband (I don’t have any friends who aren’t sweet actually and you shouldn’t either). It’s easy to rush into the parking lot, get into the entryway, sign the guest book, and find a seat so we can move on to the punch and cake, but it was nice getting there a little early and taking things in. It wasn’t that the ceremony wasn’t beautiful, it was the concept that was most awe-inspiring. Seriously, as sexual beings we aren’t meant to give of ourselves to other people so fully with body, soul, and mind in the way reserved for husband and wife. It’s just too much energy, too much self-sacrifice. Who wants that every day? 

I witnessed the beginning of two people committing themselves to each other in front of God and man EXCLUSIVELY for the rest of their lives. That’s a big deal, and “forever after” fits a cartoon more than real life for many situations. Who knows how many really doubted the longevity of the marriage in that church. It made me think of the phrase “to be taken.” If my friend is now considered “taken” by her husband and if she were to somewhere down the line be “taken” by someone else, how much really could be taken of her before she was all gone? Can I be taken by someone and then by someone else a little later until I’m finally spent? That actually sounds a lot like property.

If Jesus is the ultimate example of this exclusive committed relationship where we give our body, soul, and mind completely over to Him, than there is no other plan than to be taken by Him. When we give our hearts to God, we give away everything else that life promises for the uncommitted being. No convictions, no difficult conversations, no one to be held accountable by or constantly give of yourself. No one to hold on to and walk with for the rest of your life.  No on to be taken by and used for. So, if I am to live in this world and be a body with a heart and a somewhat-able mind, I’d rather be of use to the greatest cause in life serving someone as a living example of love. I’ll sign up every body part I have to be taken, poured and spread out, so that all my love and learning is used EXCLUSIVELY for this life I’ve been given. My take - to be taken is a passionate mission for which to strive.

For more inspirational love, visit www.ericandleslie.com.