Covenant or Contract?

When Tim, my husband, performs a marriage ceremony he often talks about the difference in a contract or a covenant.  Contracts assume skepticism, contain no trust, and can be broken.  On the other hand, a covenant is assuming permanence, trust and faithfulness, plus an idea of eternity.  Covenant making with another individual is a serious business and not to be taken lightly.  No bed of roses or promises of smooth sailing but an oath of faithfulness, inter-dependence, love, and forgiveness.  Think about your relationships - are they contracts or covenants?