The Marriage Prayer
John Waller
A Sacred Commitment: The Essence of 'The Marriage Prayer'
John Waller's song 'The Marriage Prayer' is a heartfelt plea for divine guidance and strength in the sacred bond of marriage. The lyrics reflect a deep commitment to the vows taken on the wedding day, emphasizing the desire to uphold the promise of 'till death do us part' with genuine sincerity. The song is a prayer, asking for the ability to love one's spouse more deeply by first loving God above all. This prioritization of divine love is seen as the foundation for a stronger, more selfless love towards one's partner.
The song also highlights the importance of mutual support and spiritual growth within the marriage. Waller prays for his spouse to be brought into God's presence and molded into the person God intends them to be. This reflects a desire for both partners to grow spiritually and to support each other in their faith journeys. The lyrics underscore the significance of listening to and understanding each other's hearts, cherishing and serving one another, and ultimately bringing glory to God through their union.
Furthermore, 'The Marriage Prayer' draws a parallel between the love within a marriage and the love Christ has for the Church. Waller asks for the ability to love his wife as Christ loves the Church, which is a profound and sacrificial love. Similarly, he prays for the strength to submit to his husband as he submits to God, indicating a mutual respect and submission that mirrors the relationship between Christ and believers. This spiritual dimension adds depth to the song, portraying marriage not just as a human institution but as a divine covenant that reflects God's love and grace.