Who is your ‘plus one?’

I have just returned from officiating at the wedding of a member of one of the churches I served in northwest Iowa.

What a joy to see this young woman, who was just entering high school when I moved, standing in front of me with her husband, asking for God’s blessing on their marriage.

This, along with my nieces’ wedding back in August, made me think about invitations to weddings and other special events.

Usually the invitation comes for you and a guest — your “plus one.” The Merriam Webster dictionary defines a plus-one as “a person who accompanies an invited guest to an event or gathering at which guests are allowed to bring a companion or partner.”

Who is your “plus one?” Who accompanies you through this journey of life? I hope that your life is filled with family and friends who are there for you, surrounding you with love.

Even more so, I pray that you have the realization that God loves you so much, and wants to be with your every day of your life. Your companion and partner.

One of my favorite Bible passages is from Isaiah 43:1-3a. It is a great reminder that God is with you through all of life’s joys and hardships.

God speaks to us through the prophet Isaiah: “But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. 3 For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

Earlier in Isaiah (41:10), we are reminded of God’s presence with these words: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

And if you are still not convinced hear these words from Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

These words were spoken by God to Joshua as he was about to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into the Promised Land.

As is true with so much of the Bible, these words also are given to us in our earthly journey. Be strong and courageous. You are never alone. God is always with you, with God’s unconditional love and compassion.

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)