The First McDaris House Rule

My wife and I are about to celebrate our eighth anniversary later this month. As I often do I reflect back on the first anniversary present I gave her, I printed it out on special paper and framed it. Thought I'd share it with the rest of the world.

This household is and shall be continually set apart and holy unto the only true living God, by whom and through whom is our salvation and righteousness. Blessed is the Lord forever.
Amen.

There is only one God, The true God is triune in nature; consisting of three personages; God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Each are completely and perfectly God, lacking nothing. Each equally God in essence and eternal in nature. In this we see the perfect relationship.

Therefore, God is a relational being, and seeks relationships with His people. Outside of the Godhead, the relationship between God and man is the preeminent relationship among all of creation. Made possible through Christ alone, by faith alone.

Second in the order of relationships is the marriage relationship. Ordained by God, given as a gift to man, holy and pure, to be cherished for a lifetime.

Marriage was not only given as a gift, but also as a picture of God in His relationships. It is a picture of God the Father in relation to God the Son , Christ Jesus. It is a picture of God and His relation with the nation of Israel. It is also a picture of Christ in relation to the Church. Furthermore, it is a picture of Christ in relation to regenerate man.

These are the principles on which this house rule is based.

The First McDaris House Rule is; that my wife will be honored in all ways at all times by everyone residing in or visiting this household.

This will be done because; a) She was created in the image of God. b) Her name is written in the Book of Life, redeemed by the blood of Christ. c) As my wife she is my glory, just as Christ is the glory of God. d) As my wife she is a picture of the Church, the bride of Christ.
In the matter regarding to what extent she shall be honored, all circumstances shall fall into one of two categories.

Category one, all circumstances involving correction and/or discipline.
In all these circumstances my wife will be treated with be treated with honor due a child of the one true living God.

Category two, all other circumstances. In all other circumstances she shall be treated as though we might see her through God's eyes, as though she were already perfected through the process of sanctification. If there is any doubt,then the guideline shall be, my wife shall receive as much honor as humanly possible with out worshiping her.

I shall jealously defend my wife's honor within the boundaries of righteousness, always seeking the glory of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, I hereby acknowledge that when I fail to honor my wife, I am accountable to God and the body of Christ, especially those that were witness to our marriage covenant with God.

I, Brian C. McDaris, by the authority granted to me by the eternal, holy and sovereign God of the universe, as head of this household, declare that this is a binding document.

May the Lord be blessed and glorified in this house.