Blessings Matter

When you say I do, it brings blessings not only to you but also to others.

Many couples preparing for marriage desire a special blessing for their union, and clergy are well-prepared to provide this. Over the past 25 years, I have had the honor and privilege of blessing numerous weddings.

I would like to take a moment to discuss the word ‘blessed’ and explore its spiritual significance, particularly in a world that is evolving and becoming more aware at a fast pace. There is another term, “marcarios,” which signifies a life that is abundant, complete, vibrant, and without deficiency. It's not surprising that Jesus started his Beatitudes with the word marcarios. Here’s what the scripture states, 

And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: ‘Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied.  Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.  Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil on account of the Son of Man!  Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.” (Luke 6: 20-23)

We have come to know these sayings or teachings as the Beatitudes. 

Many people associate the Hebrew definition of blessing with "divine favor," but it encompasses far more. Jesus employed the Greek word "marcarios" to describe humans flourishing not due to their own efforts, but because of their relationship with the Creator who dwells within their soul. 

In marriage, when a man and a woman unite with the understanding that they possess a divine spark, and they make a covenant with each other, they essentially create a new soul where the two become one. This soul is known as the soul of marriage, and they can start to fill it with an awareness of the Divine's heavenly presence, awakening further to the Creator within their marriage.

You might wonder: why does this matter? In marriage, when a couple understands that they have committed to a blessing that transcends themselves, this new soul of marriage, they pledge to nurture and fill it with love and faithfulness. They vow to let God's light shine through so others can see it. Essentially, the marriage becomes a testament to the light within each person, allowing others to witness the flourishing that comes from God our Creator. This flourishing embodies love and light. Decisions are always made not from a self-centered perspective, but from a viewpoint of what benefits us and ultimately others.

We question ourselves: Is the decision we're about to make beneficial for the marriage? Will it also serve as an example to others?

The blessings of Marcarios in marriage lead to human flourishing in abundance—body, mind, and spirit—serving as a testament to those around the couple. This powerfully brings forth God's love and light, acting as the seed that nurtures the family.