Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. - Ecclesiastes 4:12
Forty-five years came knocking at our front door just the other day. My husband and I looked at one another in quiet disbelief. We could remember the day we met like it was yesterday—both of us working summer department store jobs and the lengths he went to (while I was conducting a training class) to get my attention long enough to ask me out for coffee—epic. I don’t like coffee, but there was just something about this man that had me answering “yes” with intrigue and excitement that hasn’t left since. We dated through college and married the fall after graduation.
But how could it be forty-five years already? Forty-five has come so fast.
The life we’ve lived since we made our vows has been full—not always easy, but abundant. One miscarriage. Two beautiful baby girls. Three houses built. Six major surgeries. Seven moves. Two sons by marriage. Six wonderful grandchildren. Over 900 nights camping. A small sample of numbers that comprise some of the miles we’ve traveled through life together.
And, in all this time, without exception, the morning sun has always risen under the watchful eye of our loving God. When we said “I do” forty-five years ago, we joined our lives in a commitment with God at the center. Best decision ever. He has been our Rock, our Provider, our Counselor, our Defender, and our Peace.
So while we may be surprised at how quickly this anniversary has arrived, we are grateful to be opening the door to another year ahead. Another year to walk through life together. Another year to love one another. Another year where my “I love you’s” will echo back to his in a refrain we have played by heart for nearly five decades.
CLOSING PRAYER
Father God, I don’t have words big enough to express the gratitude I have for Your hand on our marriage and in our lives all these years. Please continue to protect the sanctity of marriage and strengthen the bond of love and commitment between all husbands and wives.