A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.
~Ecclesiastes 4:12 NASB
I’ve been told a grizzly bear lives in our room. Once in a while I think I might hear him. Most often it’s my exhausted husband that hears the rumble, and he tries to sneak to another room. However, I don’t like to sleep alone.
I woke early this morning before the shadows circled and the hungry birds began to sing. Then I stretched my foot out- the habitual search for reassurance. I didn’t connect. I stretched further and still the sheets were empty. He was missing, or so I thought. With disappointment, angst, and a bit of frustration, I pummeled the covers, mattress, and then my love. Wham. Happy Anniversary!
Later, he would ask me again, “Why did you do that?” But this time he would smirk and we would laugh. He already knew the answer. It wasn’t his first wee hour wake-up call. And this is why I love him. He understands my “unrest.”
For thirty-two years I’ve searched for his feet under the covers, and then I could sleep.
Several years ago, a friend proposed that I write a book on marriage, and I almost laughed with sarcasm. He had no idea of our troubled start, and appearances can be deceptive. But God does the impossible.
My husband and I made a decision to put God first in our marriage; we also made a commitment to each other, and we raised three children. They are kind, loving, compassionate, and thoughtful . . . and yet imperfect like the rest of us. Despite our many faults and failures, we loved them unconditionally and showed them the same grace and mercy we had been granted. And our family began to expand. Today, we are blessed to have added a son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.
A triple-braided cord couldn’t be broken.
Ken and I have a beautiful love story. God in His faithfulness can undo a curse and restore a marriage. We are evidence that His love can break down stone-cold walls and rebuild the ruins of our wrongdoing. The enemy of our soul wants to destroy our relationships. It is easy to give up when the storm hits and the deep rages. Many would rather let deception flood over them than to fight for truth and love.
A love that lasts requires intimacy, work, play, communication, cooperation, and forgiveness. Although, the list may look different for some, our most important ingredient has been our faith in Jesus Christ and how He has redeemed our past.
Yesterday, I ran into a friend I hadn’t spoken to in more than a year. She gave me an early anniversary gift. She told how my husband had held her hand and prayed for her as she was rushed away with a medical emergency. It showed my husband’s concern and compassion for those of us who are injured. I’d always known this about him. Nevertheless, I needed the reminder.
We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus. His Walk and Way reflect love.
I’m thankful for Ken’s fierce love, loyalty, and commitment. The past four years as I wrote, he didn’t flinch, nor shy away from our painful history. He’s been my southern oak, safe cover, rest, and strength. His deeply rooted faith has helped us bend with the whirlwind. And he has not silenced my voice.
Happy Anniversary, Ken. I love you always.
Your Southern Bell,
Lily Mae
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