41 Years

Proverbs 17:6: "Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers."

Z and I were driving home the other day and saw someone pulled over to the side of the road. We questioned whether or not we should stop and see if they needed help; but, Z made the comment that they didn't have any hazard lights on or have their hood popped. It looked like they were probably pulling over for their kids. That got me thinking how I kind of wish I didn't have some memories - like pulling over on the side of the road and my dad holding me up to go to the bathroom when I was 5 or 6. How embarrassing. But, it does make me smile. And, it makes me think of other memories I have from childhood. Like, every Sunday morning my dad helping me put on my shoes, or my mother teaching me how to read (I thought I was oh-so sneaky when I'd flip to the next page when she wasn't looking and memorize the first 3-5 words. Then when she'd come back to listen to me read I'd struggle through, as usual, the page we were on, turn the page, and read ever so perfectly that first line. My mom would smile down at me and say she was so impressed. Thanks, Mom, I thought so. :).

Later in life, they guided me through the more difficult channels of puberty, college, marriage, and having children. They've prayed for me, talked with me, helped me, warned me, and encouraged me. And, more than potty training me, teaching me to read, or guiding me through college and relationships, my parents taught me about grace. God used them to show me my sin, my need for Jesus Christ, and that my only hope for salvation is through Him. And, they're still teaching me these things in my adult life. Even after all of their children have left home, they continue to be faithful to God who has so graciously been faithful to them. And, they truly are the glory of their children, like Proverbs 17:6 says.

Today marks my parents' 41st anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Mother and Daddy! I love you.