A Gallant Choice~

Song of Solomon 3:4 "...I found the one whom my soul loves."

 

TGIM--Thank God It's Monday

Why doesn't anyone ever say that? We're alive, aren't we?

 

Yesterday I saw a sign that said, "God wants full custody of His children--not just weekend visits." I love it!

 

I am probably aging myself, but as kid I used to read Highlights magazine, and my favorite feature was a cartoon strip named "Goofus and Gallant."

 

Goofus always did the wrong thing. Gallant always did the right thing.

If Goofus ran with the scissors pointed up, Gallant walked with them pointing down.

If Goofus demanded something, Gallant politely asked.

If Goofus chewed with his mouth open, Gallant was perfectly mannered.

 

We have all had Goofus and Gallant moments. Last week I shared a couple of my own, but today I want to share a mega Gallant moment. Not actually a moment, but rather an entire life choice.

 

Later next week there's a whole entourage of Miamians headed out to California for a destination wedding. A whole lot of preparation has taken place, and it has been no small task coordinating all the details etc...

 

Why, do you suppose, are family and friends here in Miami making the effort attend? Are willing to pay for airfare, hotel, and car rentals? Are willing to make arrangements to have their kids taken care of or even allowing their children to miss a few days of school?

 

An even better question is why don't we make this effort for a couple who has simply decided to move in together? Why don't we throw shacking up showers?

 

It's because marriage, at its core, is a unique relationship where two people vow to love each other faithfully, in mind, body, and soul, through all the ups and downs of life no matter what. It is the epitomy of commitment, and we celebrate the romance and devotion behind it. (Sorry, but I don't find anything about moving in remotely romantic. Nor do I believe it demonstrates any serious commitment or devotion).

 

What are we to do, then, when a spouse violates the trust in marriage? When a spouse willfully disregards the vows taken and does the unthinkable?

 

Today's Gallant life choice award goes to someone near and dear to my heart who immediately decided, upon discovering all that her spouse did wrong, to love him anyway. To forgive him anyway. To allow God to restore her broken heart and her broken marriage.

 

We have talked about how to apply the biblical principles of love before. But let's face it--easier said than done. However, when faced with the choice of whether to fight or flee, this precious young wife and mom determined in her heart that she and her children would not be another statistic. If God says forgiveness and a restored marriage are possible, then she was willing to take Him at His word.

 

And thus began a year-long journey--one that we can all learn from, and we will this week.

 

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, Thank You for marriage. It is a beautiful thing, and we all benefit when couples stay fully committed. Prepare our hearts this week as we look to the example of someone who did it right. Bless our marriages and keep them strong and faithful. In Jesus' name, AMEN~