May 28

And both Jesus was called and his disciple to the marriage.—John 2:2.

MARRIAGE was instituted by God, during human innocency in Paradise. It is therefore a contract bearing the Divine impress, and one on which may be expected the Divine blessing. Man's physiological nature, and his moral feelings, are evidently formed to harmonise with this institution. No human confederation is so close in its nature, or so important in its character as this. Hence marriage is the most happy or most disastrous of all alliances. To render it productive of conjugal felicity, there should be a natural propriety, in the dispositions, ages, and pursuits of those, who are united in its hallowed bonds. But most of all, it is desirable, that there should be oneness of mind in matters of religion, that they may be fellow helpers of each other's faith, and heirs together of the grace of life. Nothing has been more injurious to the interests of true religion, nothing has dishonored Jesus more, or has been more productive of apostasy from Christ's holy cause, than the union of believers with unbelievers. It seems obvious that such unions cannot produce any thing, but contentions, strife, and every evil work. If we are anxious to obtain the smile of heaven on the conjugal alliance, Jesus must be invited to the marriage. His presence and blessing will lay a solid foundation, for domestic peace and prosperity. If he be thus acknowledged and honored, he will direct all our steps, guide us by a right way, and grant unto us all the desires of our heart. But if invited to the marriage festival, will he attend? Will Christ form one of a wedding company? He did so in the day of his humanity upon earth, and it will be subsequently seen, that the joys of that marriage were sanctified, and distinguished by the first miracle the Saviour ever wrought.