Ever Sweetness

We are coming upon our first anniversary. The occasion will mark a year of marriage, of bliss, happiness, and a time of discovery. We have both grown, and have learned much along the way. The first month was like an extension of our honeymoon, and following upon the heels of our return to reality - when we both returned to our jobs - our union continued to flourish.

It was on both of our hearts to serve people, and we had felt a desire to travel overseas to help an organization in the Philippines. When the opportunity presented itself, we followed Christ's calling and committed to spending a year in Olongapo, Philippines, to work with Mercy In Action. Only eight months into our marriage, we stepped out in faith and began a new adventure together.

Through it all, we have drawn ever closer to each and to the heart of God. I cannot say that it has been a cakewalk, but it has been a beautiful story, and I look forward to seeing how it unfolds in the years to come. I would not trade my life for anything. This joy that I have runs deep, and the love that I have for John is immeasurable. Without fathom.

These eleven months have been the best of my life. Christ has truly blessed me beyond measure, and I cannot thank Him enough. To John, the love of my life:

You told me you had no riches
No life of comfort to offer me
Nor aspirations to obtain great wealth
Fortunate for you that I care not for such things

You said that you were just a man
That you would sometimes disappoint
And I shouldn't have high expectations
I love who you are, not dwelling on who you're not

And I wouldn't change this love
Not for the world
I have never known this bliss
Until I knew you

You promised to take me places
Saying that we would travel the world
Countries in need, desperate for Christ
How wonderful that my desire mirrored yours

You gave your word to love and cherish
And told me that you'd never let me go
You always wanted me by your side
And it so happened that I was happiest with you

And I wouldn't change this love
No, not for the world
I have never known this bliss
Until I knew you

John and Kelsey, established October 10, 2010. May our love be ever sweet.

She Says

‘When I grow up, I want to be just like you.’ They say imitation is the highest form of flattery, and yet as the eight year old Maiya stood there staring into my eyes, I could hardly meet her gaze. They were shining with admiration.

I did not quite know what to say to her. And yet, if I could have found my tongue, I should have replied, ‘If you want to be like me, my advice to you is this. Follow Jesus. Love Him with all of your heart, and never turn to another. Let Him fill you up with His love. Don't try to be like me.’

Instead, I said, ‘Do you now?’ and let the comment slide, deflecting it with a flippant response. The longer I live, the more I find that the qualities I admire in others are usually a reflection of Christ. So if Maiya sees anything in me, I pray it is Him. I pray that her young heart seeks after His with a fervent passion.

I remember back when I was her age. I looked up to a young woman, a godly lady. I told her that I wanted to grow up to be like her. And now I find myself years later, roles reversed, taken by surprise. Maiya was not the first girl to tell me this. So I will continue to strive hard after Christ, pursuing His glory. If they see anything in me, may it be Him. I pray she sees Jesus.