M a r r i a g e i s , o f c o u r s e , a s o l d a s t h e r a c e , and from earliest times man has established customs and ceremonies in connection with it. Christianity began when “ the Word was made flesh,” and it has been a part of the genius of Christianity to lift and ennoble all natural things. We believe intensely in the sacramental character of marriage — as a natural thing which is transformed by the touch o f God, and as one of the ways in which God makes Himself known in the world. The marriage services carries more than the rite by which two persons are united: it carries also the Christian philosophy of marriage. It is “ holy matrimony” in which they are to be joined, an “honor able estate.” “ Instituted of God,” it signifies to us “ the mystical union that is between Christ and His Church.” It would be difficult to think of a higher conception o f marriage than this. The service goes on, “ and therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly; but rev erently, discreetly, advisedly, soberly, and in the fear of God.” Here is set forth the frame of mind in which marriage is to be undertaken. The three points seem to be : seriousness, which considers how im portant a step marriage is ; wisdom, which looks all around the picture before taking the step; and faith, which acts in this great matter only with the approval and help o f God. 10 THE KING'S BUSINESS
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