The First 25 Years

Posted on November 24, 2009 
Filed Under Marriage, Personal

Where did the time go? 25 years ago today my dear Dena said, “I do,” and we became man and wife. And what a tremendous journey together we’ve had since then!

I can clearly remember the beautiful East Texas sunshine and the excitement November 24, 1984. Family and friends had come from near and far. A neighbor of Dena’s parents hosted a special breakfast for out-of-town visitors. We eventually made our way to the church, where we slipped out to practice our vows one last time. We made our way to the dressing rooms, knowing that a significant rite of passage was about to transpire – we were getting married!

The help and support of friends that day was invaluable, as they arranged chairs, chased details and encouraged us. Then the ceremony began, with music, a dramatic entrance, and some rich and meaningful thoughts from our pastor. The vows, the ring, the candles, the pronouncement…and then we were headed down the aisle, holding hands and overjoyed at the life we would share together. We couldn’t stop smiling.

After posing for some photographs, we made our way to the banquet hall. The reception was wonderful, and we greeted folks for what seemed like hours. In fact, we spent so much time talking to folks that we never had a chance to eat! One of Dena’s aunts saw what was happening, and kindly saved a plate of food for us. If not for her, I wouldn’t have been able to taste the groom’s cake – it was gone before the evening finished.

We changed clothes, I grabbed her hand, and we ran through a hail of birdseed – and warm wishes – to the car. As we drove toward a little bed-n-breakfast, we exhaled and enjoyed some quiet. After the rush of the previous weeks, and little time to relax and enjoy being together, it was great feeling to know we had the entire coming week to ourselves. Indeed, the next day we made our way to northwest Arkansas, where a secluded cabin awaited us. No schedules, no appointments, no interruptions for that week. It was a fantastic way to begin married life!

During these past 25 years, Dena has endured much – I’m not all that easy to live with. She has been patient and graceful, gentle, loving and so loving. We’ve had tremendous times together! Laughter and tears, struggles and joy…we’ve experienced so much. We’ve grown closer to each other and to our God. He has richly blessed us with six children, and each has brought untold joy into our lives. He has also given us loving family and friends to encourage us along the way. Thanks to all who have poured advice, prayers and love into our relationship from the beginning in 1983 to the present!

And thanks be to God, for seeing fit to put us together. In His sovereignty, He knew what both of us needed. He knew His plan to refine, strengthen and use us – as individuals, but more significantly, as a couple. I can’t believe we’ve been together for 25 years – and I wonder what the next 25 will hold? By His grace, it’ll be every bit as good as the first 25!

While I could include a picture from that wonderful day, I’ll instead post a photo from our first date back in 1983. Taken with infrared film – I was an aspiring photographer who liked to dabble with new techniques – that occasion was captured in a rather special way. I liked the effect, but even better, I liked that girl a whole lot! I keep this picture in my office, a reminder of sweet days long ago, and of the special woman God has blessed me with all these years.

Thanks, my love, for standing with me for so long. I treasure you, and thank God for you. And I’m looking forward to the next 25!

Comments

2 Responses to “The First 25 Years”

  1. Elizabeth on November 30th, 2009 10:44 pm

    John and Dena, it was great to read of your encouraging words of your marriage so far!
    We have been married for 23 years and it also has been a great time of getting closer to each other,
    but, also encouraging to add yet another couple who are still together after 20 or more years……..
    we have some friends and others we know who have not keep their marriage alive and connected without
    God’s great love for couples who not only know Him, but are able to keep the communication lines open!

  2. Molly on December 3rd, 2009 4:28 pm

    John & Dena, this is they way I remember you all! I remember that porch with the rail….weren’t there wooden floors inside too? What great memories we have in Tyler! Jim & I have been married 22 years and counting and are still as in love now as we were then….the Lord in the center of our marriage is what makes that difference! So glad to hear from you both!

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