We are entering a new phase of our lives. Our son proposed to a wonderful woman, Rachel, last night and she said yes. We will soon we known as the "in-laws".
His proposal took place at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles a place that is special for both of them.
Rachel knew that it was going to be "the day" as Joel had given her hints along the way. She wanted to be prepared with a quick answer. Fearing she would be overcome with emotion, she wrote "yes" many times over on a piece of paper and kept it in her pocket. That way when he proposed if she began to sob as she thought she might, she could pull out the paper and show it to him so he would not be wondering "Well, what is the answer? Are you crying because it is 'yes' or because it is 'no'?"
The proposal itself honored not only his love for her but their love for the Lord. Joel got down on one knee and said, 'Rachel Susanne, I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I want to do kingdom building with you. Will you marry me?"Of course the answer was Yes and we are thrilled beyond words, but it provoked quite a mixture of emotions.
We are thrilled for the new family and new life together they are beginning. We are blessed that they desire to follow God's calling and be ministers of the Gospel. But I am glad that at my core I am not a fearful person. If I was I would be fearful for them. This world is so different than when we began our life together some 32 years ago. We too were headed to the ministry together, still finishing school, and wondering how it was all going to work out.
Today the nightly news is enough to put fear in your heart for the future; wars, earthquakes, economical uncertainty, recession, joblessness. Not a good climate in which to begin a family.
I wonder how the newlyweds will survive financially; where will they live; will the ministry pay them enough to start a family? The ministry life is a blessed life but also a difficult one. Will it be kind to them, will they have a life of joy, love, and laughter?
Revelation 1:17-18: "He placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive forever and ever!"
Again and again Jesus tells us in His word to not be afraid. He will take care of us.
Matthew 6:25-31 "That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? "And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. So don't worry about these things… but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need."
I am thankful for the assurance that God not only takes care of me but my children as well.
Thirty-two years ago when we were newlyweds, the world did not seem much better. Iran had seized American hostages, homes mortgages were at 17%, and we had to wait in line to get gas for our vehicles. Yet we saw our future through God's eyes, one filled with hope, love, and the promise of blessings working to build His kingdom. I am thankful that Joel and Rachel have that same view. I am thankful that they are in God's hands and it is His job to care for them; mine to trust that He will. My main job; extend my circle of love for my son a bit larger to include a new daughter, and try not to bawl through the wedding.
