I watched in joy as this man I had loved almost forever spoke about Christ with our daughter, and I knew I would continue to love him forever. Through all the changes, growing pains, loss, and turmoil the past two decades had brought us, I loved him still. And watching him lead our child to a personal relationship with Jesus I realized I loved him even more. I loved the way he led his family. I loved the way he fathered our girls. I loved the way he appreciated me, and I loved that he let me know he did. I especially loved his salt and pepper hair.
I loved our life together, and though it was far different from the way it was at the beginning, I knew it was better. I even knew the best had yet to come. We had matured together, endured together, created life together, and prayed together. We had fought, and then made up. We had made mistakes, and then we had forgiven. We had learned that life changes people and things, but it never changes the heart of the one you love.
Looking back to that day when I first glimpsed my teenage, future husband strumming his guitar, I never knew it would be like this. I thought I loved his talent, his handsome face, or the way he looked in those jeans! I never realized I would love the way he fiercely protected his daughters, or the way he worried about us when we were out of his sight. I never knew I’d melt with affection when he helped strangers in need, or when he told Bible stories to our girls.
Forever in my memory now will be watching my strong, Godly partner lead our child to salvation. The way he seasoned his words with kindness, insight, and especially love. The way he spoke truth, adoration, and guidance. The way his eyes glistened with emotional tears as they prayed together, and how the stray hairs fell across his forehead in a dashingly handsome way. The contented smile on his face afterwards. The way he looked at me across the room.
I never knew I would love this about my husband, but I now know I always will.