“Has not the Lord made them one? In flesh and spirit they are His. And why one? Because He is seeking godly offspring. So guard yourself in your spirit and do not break faith with the wife of your youth.” Mal. 2:15
We Cleary’s just returned from Betsy’s parent’s 50 year anniversary reunion celebration in the high mountains of Colorado.
The week culminated with a treasured evening, as all grandkids, families and friends gathered to celebrate life, love and commitment. As stories of Mom and Dad’s early years were shared at dinner, Shaun and I observed our own kids reactions and just how spellbound they each were…completely enraptured in this story/legacy they were part of.
Story after story, laughter, tears, hugs, and then dancing…every person in that mountain lodge was deeply touched, encouraged, and left with a “call” higher than themselves.
And as I observed the events of the evening, I realized a profound truth…Mom and Dad’s marriage is not really about them, it is about SO much more. Their marriage has touched countless lives…some lives, like yours reading this, that my folks will never know during this lifetime! (~~People like their own 5 kids, grand kids, guests at the event, folks that have known Mom and Dad but who could not be with us that night, and YOU! Wow. Doubtfully these college sweethearts thought about this when they said their vows June 7, 1959!)
And more, I realized that my parent’s marriage shaped their eldest child (me) in such a profound way, that I married my knight and first love, Shaun; together we are raising 3 wonderful children who are now 19 yrs., 17 yrs. and 12 yrs.; and along the journey we’ve cultivated a heart that is captivated with God’s design of marriage though examples like Dad and Mom, which in turn motivates us to go out and touch others (like in this marriage ministry). Neat huh?!!
There is a plaque that my parents gave Shaun and me that sits atop our front door and greets all who enter our home. The words simply say, “All because two people fell in love.” And yes, Dad and Mom…we Cleary’s live a love life all because of our God who brought you two people together in love (and then you chose to stay that way through the valleys and mountains of this life). Thank you. Thank you Dad and Mom for this amazing heritage.
May we each (married or single) learn the profound truths that the Italian prophet Malachi records, and start a legacy of our own…
God bless you this week!
Love,
Shaun and Betsy
