Friday, January 21, 2011

Now and Forever and No Matter What

I saw this phrase a few years ago on a plaque and really liked it.  In contemplation of what it meant, it could be applied to many different and varied stages in one's life.
 First off, it brings back precious memories of our wedding day.  The moment we said our vows and pledged our lives one to another, it was true.  I love you...now and forever...and no matter what the Lord has in store, and life brings our way.  There was never any "I'll love you, but only if" .....  Oh the comfort and security in knowing that your spouse will be there for you and that no matter what, you've pledged to work things out.  Not once in our 33 yrs of marriage, were either of us concerned about divorce.  It's never been an option.   Knowing this, it is easier to work through the rough spots.  Now and Forever and No Matter What give us the assurance that even on our worst days, we give each other the benefit of the doubt.   The most amazing thing about looking back is I used to think it can't get any better than this!  But I was wrong, as the years pass, our marriage is sweeter, our love is stronger, and the bond is greater.  We've truly become one.
Now and Forever and No Matter What came also into play when giving birth and meeting each of our children for the very first time.  Whether he/she was 3 months, 3 yrs, 13, or 33....it was and still is a love like no other.   On the very best of days, and the very worst of days the love for your children is so strong that you know that you would give your life for them in a heartbeat!  Oh, and I will tell you young parents, whether its the first day of Kindergarten (for those non homeschoolers) or the first day of college, it hurts still the same.  It's a mixed bag of emotions.  So proud!  But so sad that time has flown by so fast!  (We'll stop here, and save The Day Your Child Marries and The Day You Become a Grandparent for another blog!)

Now and Forever and No Matter What was also experienced in the nine years that my dear Mom had Altzheimer's.  Especially her last three years on earth, this phrase was lived out in our lives daily.  I saw it in my faithful husband who so willingly gave me the space to take care of her, all the while supporting me when I didn't think I could go on.  It was displayed in the lives of my children and grandchildren who loved and cared for my Mom unconditionally, even when she no longer recognized them, and even when she was hard to love.....they loved her no matter what.
And lastly, the name of my blog is so fitting for the love that is bestowed upon me by my Heavenly Father.  He is the perfect example of loving Now and Forever and No Matter What.   He paid the price of my sin on the cross and bore the pain, to spare me His child.  What greater love is this?  One of my favorite verses is:
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow."  Heb. 13:8  
Things of this world are ever changing.  Time keeps moving on, but what is most important in life is having Jesus Christ as your Rock solid foundation. 
Now and Forever and No Matter What.
Karen
My family!

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