Over the past 12 years of marriage, Callie and I have occasionally selected a book to read out loud together to help foster deeper learning, discussion, and connection in our marriage. And while the book itself often isn't the most important element (because anything that sparks good dialogue in marriage is a win), in this case, we landed on a real treasure.
We are only a couple chapters into Tim Keller's latest book, The Meaning of Marriage, but we've found it to be both helpful and inspiring. Here's his premise at a quick glance:
"Through marriage, 'the mystery of the gospel is unveiled.' Marriage is a major vehicle for the gospel's remaking of your heart from the inside out and your life from the ground up. The reason that marriage is so painful and yet so wonderful is because it is a reflection of the gospel, which is painful and wonderful at once. The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope. This is the only kind of relationship that will really transform us. Love without truth is sentimentality; it supports and affirms us but keeps us in denial about our flaws. Truth without love is harshness; it gives us information but in such a way that we cannot really hear it. God's saving love in Christ, however, is marked by both radical truthfulness about who we are and yet also radical, unconditional commitment to us.... The hard times of marriage drive us to experience more of this transforming love of God. But a good marriage will also be a place where we experience more of this kind of transforming love at a human level.... Through the gospel, we get both the power and the pattern for the journey of marriage."
If you single or married, this could be a great discussion in your home.
Check it out.
