As we contOn January 11th Cora and I passed another milestone in our journey through life together our 27th wedding anniversary. We were both extremely grateful to the Lord for having us live our lives together, but due to Cora's physical condition we planned no celebration. Actually we didn't feel much like celebrating this year. Cora was really struggling with depression since Christmas and my heart was very heavy for her.

As the day of our anniversary drew near, Jenny just couldn't let this happen even though she was also very discouraged. So, without our knowing it, she went to the store and bought us a card to give to each other, some roses, a candle and some pretty paper plates and napkins to use with dinner. It was such a blessing to have our Jenny caring so much for us and wanting to see us happy.

However, the best was yet to come! On the morning of our anniversary she surprised us with a gift bag containing a framed copy of a poem she wrote about us. It was so beautiful and meaningful to us personally, yet we believe it also contains a message for everyone so we want to share it with you.

True Love

How can true love be observed?
In the tingling of a nerve?
In those feelings that pierce like a knife?
In that rose colored outlook on life?

Yes, these are a part of love
Ordained by the Father above.
But I have seen so much more
Than these in the midst of love's core.

How can one such as I know this
When I have not known love's bliss?
Through the love of my father and mother
This love they have felt for no other.

A love laced with sadness and grief
With trials that challenged belief.
Though pain their flesh had not invited
Twas there true love's flame was ignited.

For their love's not ruled by emotion
But is shown by their trust and devotion.
Based not on what they want or feel.
No, these do not their union seal.

It is their commitment to God
Each day in His love they are shod.
This love of the holiest kind
Forever their two hearts will bind.

I hope that someday through my doors
Will come a love as good as yours!


That poem is now hanging on our bedroom wall, reminding us of the great love Jenny has for us. But I hope that poem will also be a reminder of the joy and blessing that is released when something is done out of love rather than obligation. It is so easy to do our daily living out of a sense of duty or commitment or routine, including our work with Wycliffe. We can be faithful but have the life and joy missing. In 1 Corinthians 13 the Lord says nothing is really accomplished until our works are done in love. In that same chapter He says there are three things that last faith, hope and love but love is the greatest of all. What a challenge to all of us to do everything with love as the ultimate motivation, watching for opportunities to bless others by showing our love in special ways.

I recently noticed an interesting verse while reading Hebrews in the New Living Translation. Right in the middle of chapter 10 which is talking about the great sacrifice of Christ for us and our need to perservere in righteousness verse 24 says, "Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds." What a great way to live! That is what Jenny did for us without knowing it when she gave us the poem. Our desire is see this happen more and more as we journey through this life.

"Father, help us to do all our living with love as our deepest motivation. We know it is important to keep our promises and be faithful in carrying out all You have committed to us. But please give us a fresh infusion of Your love so Your joy and blessing may be released through us in greater ways. We love You, Father, because You first loved us. Thank You for Your answer. Amen."

And we thank you for your faithfulness in loving us through your prayers, encouragements and support. May the Lord bless you greatly as you walk in His love.