a word on agreements

I listened to my pastor speak on Sunday when he said something interesting, which I can’t get out of my mind. Speaking of marriage he said, “If I willingly submit myself to the terms of her covenant, I will become her treasure. If she willingly submits herself to my terms, in the same vein, she will become my treasure.” It’s not an exact quote, but it’s close enough.
As soon as he had said it, questions flooded my mind. Who creates this agreement? Is it spoken, and when is it made? How high should my standards be? What should my covenant look like? Blah, blah, stinkin blah.
Of course, I was getting caught up on the details when I realized something about the Israelite community and God. Their agreement (covenant) was unique and it was based on their relationship, which preceded the rules themselves. This was, coincidentally Erik’s next point. Relationship lays the foundation for rules.
How was God’s covenant with Israel set up? Like this: “I am a jealous God; it will be me and no other. This is our marriage, and I will not share my bride!” This covenant is absolutely binding and it is one made for life. But it’s not the covenant that is important! It is a great way to show someone that you are “all in,” and seal the deal, but the relationship is what matters, not the words on the page. I think the secret is submission, and there is nothing in an agreement that can force someone into action against his or her will (Trust me, I just brought my nephew to the doctor today. If someone doesn’t want to do something, you cannot force submission). Just hear their terms, search for them and submit yourself to them. See what happens!