The Beginning of the 54th Year

 

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 ESV).

 

I have interrupted our trek through the Christmas season to focus on our wedding anniversary today. Fifty-three years ago at the First Baptist Church of Bryan, Texas, Mary and I exchanged our vows and were married. It hardly seems possible that we are beginning our 54^th year together. I am so grateful for the way God has blessed us through these years. Even while there have been some experiences that were difficult, there was never a time when God did not provide us with strength and purpose. When Solomon wrote the words of our reading today, he was giving us the map for our lives: And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (v. 14). As Mary and I have stood together with Jesus as our “third cord” we have never encountered an enemy strong enough to prevail over us.

 

Of course we have faced challenges through financial ups and downs and health issues that were very difficult. However, we have never faced them alone. The Psalmist expressed it so well:

 

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. (Psalm 46:1-3 ESV).

 

I hope that your life is filled with the presence of the Lord today. For those who find themselves without their partner, please rely on the promise of God to never leave you and to provide for you all that you need. This is especially true during those times when you feel overwhelmed with the enemy’s effort to rob you of your hope and joy.

 

Happy Anniversary, Mary! I am so thankful you decided to walk with me through this incredible life!