Words from the Weary Wilderness - Lenten Journey Day 30

posted on March 31

Day Thirty                                        Tuesday, April 5
 
Honeymooners Can’t be Drafted
 
Read: Deuteronomy 24:5
 
Miscellaneous Laws
 
⁵ When a man is newly married, he shall not go out with the army or be charged with any related duty. He shall be free at home one year, to be happy with the wife whom he has married.
 
Today’s Word from the Weary Wilderness: He shall be free at home one year, to be happy with the wife he has married. (Deuteronomy 24:5b)
 
Reflection: Did you know that “honeymoon” refers to the month after one’s wedding? That whole lunar cycle is to be one of celebration and time together. To the Israelites, the entire first year is to be hallowed by the couple, not simply a month. For that reason, the man is not consigned to an army leaving the camp or “any related duty.” This tells us that a strong foundation for the marriage was very important to the people in the Wilderness. They did not want anything to jeopardize that growing bond. How do you feel about newlyweds today? What distractions do they face as they are going through their first months together? How can you pray for a “newlywed” today?

Prayer: God of the Weary Wilderness, this scripture reminds us to pray for all who are in the beginning days, months, and years of marriage. We ask that you would build a hedge of protection around couples, just as the people of Israel did. Bring to our minds those who need our prayers and our encouragement. Even as we share their joy, we also have a stake in the success of the marriage by our prayers and support. Amen.

Blessings of Peace and Health,
Bev
 
Rev. Beverly B. Coppley
District Superintendent
& Chief Missional Strategist