Eight years ago today

On June 23rd, 2001, at about 4:05 p.m., the back doors of the sanctuary opened and my bride started to walk down the aisle. We were surrounded by a sea of friends and family that day, but in that moment, there was just her and I. We shared our vows, exchanged our rings and on that day, we dedicated our lives to one another. The journey of “us” began.

Today, eight years later, we’ve picked up two additional companions along the way… our daughter, Anna, and our son, Jack. That which began with “us” now includes “them” as well.

“Us” has grown.

There are key decisions in life… moments where the paths we choose change our lives forever. My life was changed because of the path I chose that day, and because my bride said, “yes,” to joining me on that path.

Today, ironically enough, I’m preparing for a Bible study I’m teaching tonight on the Old Testament book, “Song of Songs” which testifies to the joy of young lovers and the overwhelming power of love.

In preparing, I think this quote speaks to the joy I’ve found in the union my wife and I celebrate today.

Marriage, as a union of articulated vows and commitments, allows an individual the context in which to glimpse into the heart and soul of another, to hold another’s nakedness and vulnerabilities, to handle and to nurse another’s wounds and bruises. A covenant vow is needed to embark on this kind of undertaking, for it acknowledges that it takes an act of will and a power greater than two frail parties to prevent either or both from adandoning the tedious work that lies ahead. Physical attraction may draw the two together, but it will take a supernatural attraction to keep them together – in love. And while it is true that living in covenant union with another human being may prove the most unglamorous, exacting, and excruciating work a person will ever undertake, it is also the most extraordinary effort one can engage in.

To my bride, you are my life. I love you more today than I ever thought possible, and I anticipate that love growing every day of this journey we share.

Categories: Family