Once upon a time two young people, age 16, named Philip and Sandra fell in love. They were just kids but they were just sure that their love was real. See, they didn't go to the same school or get to talk on the phone much, so when they saw each other, mostly at church, they had to make the most of each opportunity. So, one hot day at the beginning of the summer, when their youth group was planning a trip to Galveston, they decided to do something quite different. They drove their car from Houston, TX to Mexico. Why Mexico? Because they had done their research and found out you could get married there!
What happened next? You guessed it! They were married and came home to tell their families, who weren't so happy about their whimsical romantic plan. But, it was done, so they supported them as best they could and sent them on their way... to try to make it on their own.
Did they make it? Well, they both turned 17 that summer and moved a couple hours from home. Sandra finished high school while working pretty much full time and Philip started college. The road was rough but slowly they worked their way up from campus housing to a trailer to a house. They each had 1 $0.39 taco for a special treat occasionally but for the most part every penny counted.
And now they've been married for 37 years today.
It's the story of my parents. Well, part of it. I don't think I've ever heard the whole story.
But here's what I get out of it...
Life was tough. But they never lost their faith in God. And when they decided to have children, they taught us that faith by their example. They reminded us that when life gets difficult, God is still there. When you think you are tired and can't do any more, God is strength. When nightmares are scary or reality is too, God is protector and helps us not to be afraid. When boo-boos make you cry, or BIG hurts come along, God is healer.
They taught me to lean on God. They taught me to trust Him. They taught me to listen to God's voice. And when I got to a point in my life that I began to question all I knew about God (when studying science in college), the faith of my parents was a great example. I had learned to hear from God.
Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad. I know it's hard to let your little girl and grandsons go and say goodbye for a little while, but know that God goes with us. He goes before us. And I learned much from you.
The Bible says "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." III John 1:4 I hope you can believe that when you are missing us this year!
Thank you for being an example to me.
And Happy Anniversary!
Kim - I know that they are very proud of you, just a bit selfish. But as a parent you must understand that.
ReplyDeleteMatthew 19:11-12 But Jesus said, "Not everyone is mature enough to live a married life. It requires a certain aptitude and grace. Marriage isn't for everyone. Some, from birth seemingly, never give marriage a thought. Others never get asked—or accepted. And some decide not to get married for kingdom reasons. But if you're capable of growing into the largeness of marriage, do it."