A Tribute to Zack & Tamera

Celebrating the marriage of our son

Our son Zack married a wonderful woman from southeastern Kentucky on Friday. We’re so proud of him and so blessed to welcome his new wife, Tamera, into our family. I was privileged to do the wedding ceremony. I’ve done plenty of weddings over the 29+ years of my preaching career. But this one was different—so many emotions. There are many pleasant memories of raising Zackary, and I am continually amazed at how fast it has all gone. I spent a few moments wishing I could have some of the time back — and all the days I took for granted. And yes, a few tears were shed. I love my son so much.

Zack moved to middle Tennessee 2 years ago. It was one of the best decisions he made to that point. It forced him to grow up in many ways and be completely self-sufficient. It allowed him to develop his own faith apart from ours. And grow and mature he has! I have watched from afar and been so proud to see him mature into Christ and become a young spiritual leader. I love that he is leading a small group of his peers on Wednesday nights. People respect Zack for his honesty, care, and matter-of-fact approach.

Yesterday, I wrote him a letter and praised God for bringing another special person to Zack, who would complete him in every way. For this, Becky and I are truly thankful, for more than anything, we have desired that Zack find a godly woman who will be his partner in getting him to heaven.

Here is part of my wedding sermon from last night:

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In marriage, the roles God ordained for a man and a woman carry profound significance, mirroring the divine relationship between Christ and His Church. God’s blueprint lays out a path of mutual submission and leadership rooted in love, sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of holiness. Embracing these roles is a formidable challenge in any time and culture because it is far beyond the reach of our flawed human nature and power. For it to work, both husband and wife must rely entirely on the Lord — who will, by His Spirit, provide the strength and power to be what God has called them to be.

For Zack:

Zack, as you step into the role of a husband, you're called to mirror the love and leadership of Jesus towards His Church. This love transcends all dimensions, marked by an unwavering commitment to sacrifice. Your daily task is to nurture Tamera's spiritual growth, guiding her closer to God, with the ultimate goal of leading her to heaven. Your journey together is contingent on your spiritual health. Let your love for the Lord fuel your leadership, keeping the flame of your devotion bright. Remember, Tamera is not just a companion but a divine gift to help you find your greatest satisfaction in God.

For Tamera:

Tamera, your role reflects the Church's submission to Christ. This involves a joyful readiness to follow Zack's leadership, rooted in a mutual understanding of your equal standing before God. Embracing this role is not about diminishing your value but glorifying God through your marriage's unique dynamics. Your dedication to Zack is also a pathway to heaven, a mutual journey of spiritual upliftment. Walking with God, your submission becomes fertile ground for growth, blooming into a relationship that flourishes under His grace.

For You Both:

As you both embark on this journey, set your sights on achieving greatness for God through your union. The path ahead is challenging as marriage becomes a battleground against forces seeking to diminish its glory. Yet, with Christ's victory as your banner, your marriage is a testament to His enduring love and power.

Four Principles Which Build a Lasting Marriage

Pursue Holiness

Above all, strive for holiness, for it is in holiness that true happiness and the essence of marriage are found. Zack, Tamera's spiritual growth hinges on your holiness. Tamera, Zack's journey towards God is similarly dependent on yours. Together, chase after the holiness that reveals God's presence and solidifies the joy in your marriage.

Seek Wisdom

Wisdom is your guiding light in the beauty of your covenant. Just as Solomon sought wisdom to lead, so must you seek divine wisdom to navigate the complexities of married life. Hidden in Christ, wisdom springs from a deep reverence for God—seek it diligently.

Embrace Humility

Pride, the adversary's preferred weapon, can only be defeated by humility. In humility, value each other above yourselves, embodying the mindset of Christ. This selflessness is the foundation of a marriage that reflects God's love.

Cultivate Joy

Let joy in God be the wellspring of your happiness. As sin and Satan conspire to dull your affection for one another, a steadfast joy in God will keep your love vibrant and enduring. In this joy, your marriage becomes a melody of love that glorifies God.

The journey you are beginning is one of divine calling, requiring a daily commitment to die to yourselves and live for each other in Christ. Through the challenges and victories, may your union forever stand as a testimony of God's grace, a living example of His perfect design for marriage.