We don’t have it figured out. Not even close. We have some real hurdles that we have had to clear. When we said, “I do” all of those years ago, we didn’t have a clue what was ahead, or how dear the Gospel would become. We might tell ourselves that had we known how difficult it would get, we would have ran [run] away.
But the truth is, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I have learned far more on the choppy sea than I would have in peaceful waters. Empathy, patience, long-suffering, hopefulness, gratitude . . . I have learned that you are not my anchor, and were never meant to be. God is the anchor that holds me fast as life dashes us against the rocks. Instead of blaming each other during these storms, it’s better to take care of each other, because this world is not very nice at times. And those rocks have really sharp edges.
It’s better for us to see each other as fellow sojourners. We both have a difficult journey. Maybe then we won’t yell and holler when we feel threatened. A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger, right? We have seen that to be true. So let’s speak kindly as we offer and receive forgiveness. And most of all, may we keep the Gospel in mind when we feel at the end of our rope.
I am in need of grace just as much as you. It means we can’t hold things against each other, because we both need God’s love. I can’t fix you. You can’t fix me. We need outside help with that. So let’s cut each other some slack, and give lots of grace. Let’s tread lightly on each other’s hearts because we are both kind of fragile. Humans are unique that way.
Happy Anniversary. We should be proud. We are as tough as nails, staying married in this crazy culture. But God is big. He reveals things to us in the right moments, and He is there to help us get around the next bend in the road.
I love you. Infinity.
