I look forward to Thursdays when I can publish thoughts on my spiritual journey and hear the thoughts of others on a weekly theme topic. It has become a space for an encouraging and fortifying community to come together. We welcome anyone who would like to join us!
This week's theme topic is FAMILY.
"But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children-- " - Psalm 103:17
"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." - Proverbs 22:6
The theme topic family came to me this week because I attended a bridal shower for Libby hosted by her fiancé's mother and sister. As I walked in and saw them busily putting finishing touches on the beautiful room - the sunflower-adorned "Mint To Be" favors, the game instructions, a vase of red roses with attached love notes from Jamie, a tower of chocolate strawberries, champagne punch, sunflower and "S" shaped cookies, etc., all lovingly arranged and planned, I was overwhelmed. Here was another family about to love and welcome Libby into their fold, full of joy and acceptance.
They are a large family - 10 kids! We've gotten together with them several times, and each time I've thanked God that this is the family I will share Libby with - the Christmases, the Thanksgivings, the birthdays, the Easters, the vacations, the ordinary moments, and even future grandchildren. We are truly blessed that God chose this family for her. She's not just getting Jamie, she's getting the whole gang, and they are amazing. This is a family who loves Jesus, who cares for orphans in Guatemala, who likes to laugh and play games, who supports each other's endeavors, who are kind and gentle, who pursues learning and service, and who cares about each other and the world deeply.
Marriage can be hard in this current cultural climate. Not everyone believes in it or supports it. Not everyone applauds 22-year-olds making this lifelong decision. However, this is a couple whose families are behind them 100 percent, who have enjoyed their own marriages (started young) and parenting (they did it us times 5. ;-)) , and who know that God chose them for each other and will not forsake them. Family is such a strong force and bond, and she's so blessed that she has two of them who are watching out for her. I hope Jamie knows we are watching out for him, too, and feel incredibly blessed that she chose him. We know he is going to be a great husband and trust him whole-heartedly.
Ed and I enjoyed the same acceptance and support from our own families. We are each blessed with parents who have enjoyed long marriages and are continuing to enjoy life together and who were (and are) happy we chose each other. They provide us with examples of faith, commitment, and joie de vive every day. It is a legacy that blessed us, and we know it will bless Libby and Jamie.
Libby on spring break vacation with her new family. She's in red. I think she fits in! ;-)
Libby (in blue) at the bridal shower with her sister, Katie (right) and
new sisters front and left (one not pictured because she is in Guatemala).
Moms!
How did I know you would be writing about this upcoming wedding today? I'm sure it's all consuming, but in a joy-filled way. Here's to your daughter and the life ahead of her. Your support will get her through whatever lies ahead.
ReplyDeleteMargaret - I hope the topic isn't getting annoying! ;-) You're right - it can be all consuming, but it is definitely joyful. It's just that it's my first time being a mother-of-the bride, and it's taking me by surprise, just like when I was a mom for the first time. :-) It marks a new stage, a new moment, a new consciousness of time. I also don't want to miss it - it's importance - so I'm doing a lot of reflecting so that it's captured.
DeleteCongratulations to your daughter and your new families. I have to agree that having family support is so helpful in beginning and persevering in a marriage. I have been blessed with a supportive family of my own and with my husband's family.
ReplyDeleteWonderful celebration of family. Blessings as your family circle increases!
ReplyDeleteSo excited for Libby to add her brightness and beauty to our family tree, officially!
ReplyDeleteHolly, this is such a wonderful photolog of a wonderful event in Libby's life. The post is filled iwth such a loving. May the Lord bless Libby and Jamie's lives.
ReplyDeleteHolly, your quote images are wonderful. What did you use to create them?
ReplyDeleteThey're not mine. The camera image at the top of my blog goes to the website where I found it when you click it. You reminded me to credit the other one to the blog where I found that one. I wish I knew how to create those images because if I did, I would! :-)
DeleteOh, another place with great images that you can use (I asked permission, and they said yes, as long as I credit it to their website) is simplereminders.com. However, I know you create your own wonderful images - you don't need that! :-)
DeleteHolly, this is so heartwarming to hear :D Thanks so much for sharing what sounds like an amazing Bridal Shower, and even more so---amazing future in-laws! So happy for you all :) Love the beautiful pics!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful story and message.
ReplyDelete