Oh My!, NE

I have been remiss not to give an update on a trip to Omaha, NE that happened earlier this month. It was one of the more amazing communal experiences I have had.

A few months ago Hayne moved to Omaha in anticipation of his being wed to Nicole. Their wedding was on December first and was beautiful.

God has been taking me on a journey to understand community and it's impact on my life and it's necessity inside christian spirituality. Hayne has been a huge part of this experience and he and Nicole recognize this need in their lives and likewise in their marriage.

Often it seems that we attend weddings or are involved in the ceremonies and two things dominate the day: the bride and/or the couple. Now, while there may be something to this focus there also seems to be something that is largely overlooked.

There were a few things that really stood out in my mind. Hayne and I talked often that weekend about the role of myself and the other groomsmen hold. We weren't there simply as witnesses, but as those closest to him that will hold him accountable to the promises that he was making to Nicole. We weren't just there for the weekend, we were there to symbolize being there the rest of our lives. I am sure that Nicole discussed similar things with her bridesmaids.

Not only was there this emphasis with the bridal party but there were some differences in the ceremony. Nicole and Hayne wrote their own vows to each other. They both did amazing with this and spoke some beautiful words. The maid of honor and best man both spoke after this. Each giving vows on behalf of the bridesmaids and groomsmen respectively. Then the community that attended the wedding pledged to support Hayne and Nicole with an "I do".

The ceremony was really touching. It wasn't simply two individuals making a promise, but a community coming together, focused on two specific members, all taking part in a covenant that is focused on honoring God.