To my parents on their 35th anniversary

Dear mom and dad on this, your 35th anniversary,

I want to say thank you.

In a world where marriage is no longer seen as sacred and options other than staying together for the long haul are chosen, thank you for honoring the covenant you made between each other and before God 35 years ago today.

Thank you for being a picture of Christ and the Church and loving each other when it was hard, unenjoyable and required a moment-by-moment conscious death to self.

Over the last several years I’ve had the privilege and unique perspective of seeing God increase your love for each other as He builds your dependency on Him and matures you spiritually and emotionally. I’ve watched God knit your hearts together tighter than ever before as His love pours through you both, enabling you to love one another.

Dad, I’ve seen you represent Christ in our home. You have been a leader who is faithful to his people, who loves sacrificially, humbly serves, and who knows where his strength comes from.

Mom, I’ve seen you represent the church in our home. You have respected and honored your husband, submitted to his authority and have been the helper God called wives to be.

I realize you are not perfect. As your daughter, I’ve seen the times where you both have sinned, but I’ve also seen you be quick to repent, apologize and ask forgiveness. I’ve watched as you have extended grace and forgiveness, forbearance and compassion to each other as a reflection of God’s undeserving lovingkindness and perfect patience with us.

Your marriage has had days of trials, heartache and tears, and I’ve seen you both grow closer through it all. As your home was shaken your foundation never wavered because your relationship was built on the Rock and you clung to the One who sovereignly gives and takes away.

Your marriage has had days of sunshine, laughter and upmost joy, and I’ve seen you both rejoice, worship and exalt the Giver of all good things.

Your marriage has taught me that “wedded bliss” comes with a price tag. Marriage is not a glamourous, dazzling fantasy, but a real, raw and holy union of two sinners looking to a perfect Savior for the grace to love as He does.

I’m implausibly grateful that the Lord gave you to me as parents and for the opportunity to witness His love manifested through your devotion to each other. I look forward to watching 35 more years.

I love you. Happy anniversary,

Sophie