Tuesday; June 2

        If my math is correct, today would have been my parents’ 63rd wedding anniversary.  My Mom passed away a few years ago – shortly after their 59th anniversary, so even though they didn’t make 60, they had a pretty good run.  My parents were High School sweethearts who ventured off on a journey that would initially take them from the coast of Florida, to the desert of West Texas and the mountains of New Mexico, then back to the Southeast again.  They survived a lot of moves (my Dad was a minister for most of my childhood), they lived on a limited (but livable) wage and endured the emotional trauma of losing a child in a tragic accident.  They buried a close, personal friend who was killed in the war in Viet Nam; celebrated a lot of weddings, experienced the birth of their grandchildren and the adoption of their great grandchildren.  Their years together will filled with some incredible highs and debilitating valleys. 
          As I look back at my parents’ marriage three things stand out.  First, they genuinely loved one another.  They were friends as well as partners.  Second, they made sure that they fostered their relationship while raising their children.  We were important to them, but they understood the whims of the children did not always dictate family decisions.  Finally, they were committed to each other.  Whether times were good or bad, I never had to worry about whether either one of them would be there for us the next day.
          As I think about my parents’ relationship, I am drawn to Paul’s description of a Christian family in Ephesians 5-6; yet, maybe in a way that is a little bit different.  You see, the phrase that seems to highlight their longevity is Ephesians 5:21, “... and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.”.  If you are looking for a key to a successful marriage, this might just be the place to start.  I can’t guarantee you sixty years of wedded bliss, but it is a pretty good place to begin your journey.
         Think About It!

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