Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Greater Joy



"You have given me greater joy..." Psalm 4:7

Today is a day of greater joy.

Today is a day of celebration.

My Mom and Dad celebrate 65 years of marriage today. A wonderful milestone has been reached. Sixty-five years of covenant living and loving.

Their love has climbed mountains, endured desert dryness, walked paths of pain, forged valleys, battled storms, soared over unexpected wonders and lingered in gardens of delight, always side by side.

Firm believers in never allowing the sun to set on an unkind word or misunderstanding, short accounts were kept and a lifestyle of forgiveness was modelled. Their love was and is anchored firmly in the Lord.

Married in their late teens, now in their 80's, any observor would forget their age as they walk hand-in-hand and arm-in-arm.

"Dorf" and "Demf", as they lovingly call one another, still embrace like newlyweds. Mom will ask, "Who's your girl?" and Dad will respond without hesitation, and with exclaimation and a twinkle in his eye, "You are."

Cupping Mom's face in his hands, he still speaks words of endearment, cherishing her beauty. He adores her completely.

They were first love and only loves.

The following picture was taken about nine months ago.



Most of you know that my Dad is struggling with health concerns right now. We are hoping to enjoy a little time of celebration today. Please pray that it will be a special day for all our family. Ten weeks ago I questioned the arrival of this celebration. The Lord has been so gracious as to give us all "greater joy" and more treasured moments with my Mom and Dad.

My sister, her son and I went to the hospital last night to decorate Dad's room to surprise Mom today. Dad enjoyed being in on the planning and he was directing our every move.



I hope to be back later today to post additional pictures.

Today I'm celebrating...and I have greater joy!



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3 comments:

On Purpose said...

Happy Anniversary to your parents Joy...for they truly have a legacy that has forever left the world a better place. Thank you for sharing the celebration with us.

RefreshMom said...

I'm so glad your parents (and you girls) had this special moment after all the struggle and uncertainty of recent weeks. I hope it was a really blessed time for all of you.

Happy Anniversary to your mom and dad!

Kathy Schwanke said...

Joy, this is so precious! I have been missing this week and have been very weary. Lo and behold (do they say that in Canada?), I received a package in the mail...

Joybells ringing...Joyful Joyful we adore Thee...and I was refreshed.

Thank you!

I am convinced that is your verse...he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.