May 19: Three’s Company

The jazz was smooth, the food delicious and the company to die for. A recent (and rare) evening out with my bride of 23 years and no kids. It was wonderful. We’re the typical couple with children still at home, that are so busy with jobs, chores and taxi service that we rarely have time for each other.

We miss (but still remember) those days when we used to date; those romantic encounters that we longed and lived for. But here I am, alone with the woman I love, feeling guilty because by saying ‘yes’ to this I’m saying ‘no’ to other obligations and responsibilities that need my attention. I think I’m ‘supposed’ to be somewhere else, fulfilling my ‘duties’ as a leader.

Then the thought crosses my mind that there are three of us here. From the very beginning of this journey together we stood before God and made promises not only to each other but to our Creator. My friend, Ron, says it takes three to make his marriage work—him, his wife, and their therapist. My wife and I also feel it takes three—a husband, a wife and God.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

So there’s no other place I’d rather be, or need to be, than right here in this moment with the love of my life. We laughed and dreamed like we haven’t done in ages. I realized how much I’ve missed her and promised to myself to make time together, just the two of us, more of a priority.
Time will tell. Old habits die hard and the demands of middle age are ever-mounting. But I love my bride, and I love romancing her.

I know our spouses deserve (and desire) more of our best—the best of your time, attention and energy. Your spouse (and mine) are worthy of more than the “leftovers” of our lives.

“Come with me, my bride. You have stolen my heart, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes…How delightful is your love!” (Song of Solomon 4:8-10)

~ Father, help me treasure this one you gave me as the priceless treasure that she is. Amen.