Reflections of 18 years of marriage

We meet at church. Our mutual friend Gordy introduced us. We both weren't attracted to each other at first. Then with our friendship we realized we both had a lot in common. We got together a lot with mutual friends playing card games and watching movies. Then Joe and Gordy called me one day to ask for a double date...problem was I didn't know who exactly I was going with...Joe or Gordy! It was Joe who showed up at my door!!! That was May 29, 1993...fast forward 7 months more and we were married. Did we understand that marriage was an example of Christ and his church...NO. We understood it more fully 8 years later.

As I reflected today of 18 years of marriage I told Joe that even with those years of rough spots I would not trade a thing. Yes Joe and I had our first 8 years with some rocky times, but  though all of it God was working and it is and was for our GOOD! We both came through it all stronger and wiser. Now when we talk to people that are struggling we can say that we have been there and the God is faithful though all of it!

Another thing as I have looked back today I have really come to the realization that love is a choice especially when you have those struggles. When I married Joe I drove my friends nuts talking about him ALL the time. I was love sick! What I realized very quickly was that kind of love does not have strong roots. Do I still get those butterflies at times and feel overwhelmed with emotions for Joe....YES! Because of God, because of HIS faithfulness I love Joe more than I ever did 18 years ago. Each year I am astonished how much more love, commitment, and joy I feel for Joe and it is only because of GOD!

Some day in GLORY we will totally understand all of God's Word. Here on earth we get to learn, grow, and bring God glory. Marriage is a teaching ground and I am so joyful that God choose Joe for me to go through it with! To God be the GLORY!