The Things You Do for Love

My husband likes things to look forward to. So, I help plan his activities and adventures. 18 miles of books at the Strand. Scapa Flow. Camden Yards. Fat Possum Records. Alcatraz Island. These are things I would not choose to do, but I am able to find my own fun in most situations.

God prepared me for this by letting me grow up in a small town where people would go to the local dump to watch black bears for excitement. My upbringing taught me to say with relative ease, "For I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content." Philippians 4:11b

In addition, I see that my husband is willing to go to some of my preferred places even when watching paint dry would be more appealing to him. He sacrificed for me when we went to the Wenham Tea House, New York City 4th of July fireworks and The Funky Monkey Boutique.

We do it for love.

Now, we are facing new medical situations that don't contain much to look forward to in an earthly sense. Being content is suddenly more challenging. I am unsure what God is planning, but, whatever it is, it doesn't involve fun adventures in New York City with my husband. Can I really say, "In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.?" Philippians 4:12

Right now, it seems that my contentment education is incomplete. And yet, God, in His goodness, has prepared me for these circumstances in a way I cannot see. Perhaps He will use the struggles we faced together in ministry or the contact with saints who were faithful in spite of suffering. Maybe the Holy Spirit will remind us that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

The future is uncertain. But, Jesus' sacrifice on the cross on our behalf leaves no doubt in my mind. I can say with confidence that whatever God chooses to do in our lives...

He does it for love.