Saturday, November 30, 2013

TO MY HUSBAND, ON HIS BIRTHDAY

36 years old.

Another birthday. Another year gone by where we turn the pages of the twelve months past and see God’s grace at work in your life; another year where we can rejoice in His goodness and give thanks for His faithfulness.

It’s good to rejoice; it’s good to give thanks; it’s natural to do these things as I think about you.

There’s something indescribably sweet about a kid drawing a picture of their family when, in the picture, the child has drawn himself holding hands with his parent, huge smile on the faces of both. It’s almost as though the child is saying, “When I picture my life, when I draw something that makes me happy and that makes me smile, you’re in the picture. We’re together.”

That’s me when I picture my life. That’s what I’d draw. You and me, Justin. We’re together. We’re side by side. We’re holding hands. But in the picture I’d be smiling and crying at the same time because I’m overwhelmed by the grace that I’ve been shown. To be able to walk through this life at your side is a most precious gift.   

You are a servant, a leader, a man of integrity in every possible way.  

I’m thankful for your strength and your gentleness.
I’m thankful for your kindness and your encouragement.
I’m thankful for your love and your faithfulness.
I’m thankful for your leadership and your example.
I’m thankful for the love you show your sons and your baby girl.

But most of all, I’m thankful that you point me to Christ. Again and again, during times of joy and also sorrow, you gently, lovingly remind me to look to Him. That’s what I need more than anything.

Thank you for being my best friend, my husband, and my shepherd.

 You are loved.

Happy Birthday!