Go For The Gold

We are surrounded by a great cloud of people whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect.Think about Jesus' example. He held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him. So do not get tired and stop trying. Hebrews 12:1-3 (NCV)

Recently I received a call from the husband of one of my best friends. He informed me he and his four kids were planning a surprise 25^th wedding ceremony for his wife, one of my best friends. Twenty-five years ago they eloped because neither wanted the stress of preparations for a wedding at the time. He and the kids were working hard gathering pictures and sending out letters inviting family and friends for the grand celebration. The men standing up with him would be his three sons, and his daughter would be the maid of honor. Then he asked me if I would stand up as a bridesmaid, along with another best friend. Yes! Yes! I was so excited. The three of us have been very close for twenty years, sharing good times and bad, analyzing children's behaviors, meeting for breakfast, exchanging gifts; what best friends do.

The "wedding day" arrived and what a day it was. The groom was more nervous than the day he eloped! This secret was much harder to keep than the one they kept about their elopement. Saturday morning we all scurried to the church to decorate and prepare food while the bride was at work. After their anniversary dinner, the groom brought his bride to the church for the big event. And boy was she ever surprised! She giggled nervously as she walked down the aisle with her father for the first time. When she glanced over to her left, she smiled at her daughter and shook her head at her two best friends. The ceremony was very special. After they exchanged vows and the groom gave his bride a beautiful ring, we all watched a presentation of precious family photos. I don't think there were too many dry eyes as their daughter accompanied dad and brothers when they sang "She's Got A Way" (Billy Joel).

What was most beautiful was the picture of God's plan for marriage and family they displayed throughout the entire evening. The pastor pointed out their faith in God and their commitment to one man and one woman for a lifetime. Their love for God and His commandments are lived out every day. Another point the pastor made was that they are a home of believers; whole-house salvation he called it. I do not know of a better blessing, short of heaven, than when our children claim God as their Savior. I don't want to paint a picture of perfection, because they will be the first to tell you they fall short every day. They all face trials and are surrounded by a sinful world. However, they walk with God. They seek Him daily. God's blessing is overflowing as they struggle through life and gain victory over sin. They are running a hard race and they haven't quit. The children were challenged to follow their parents' example as they embark into adulthood and seek out a life-long mate, and to understand God's will for their lives. The congregation was also charged to examine their faith, relationships and commitments.

The ceremony ended with the special kiss and presentation of the bride and groom. As the pastor prayed, he thanked God on behalf of the congregation for this special family. He finished his prayer with this, "And may they not stop with the silver, let them go for the gold!"

Lord, we are faced with so many evil things in this world that can ruin our Christian testimony. Protect our marriages and families, and may we stay faithful to each other and to You, for Your honor and glory. Thank you for Your example of true love!

Janet Stutzman