50 years of marriage.

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." - Ephesians 5:25

I wanted to get a little personal and talk about my grandparents, Bill and Carol Shivers. I know most people who read my blog don't know them, but you know me.... and I believe they are a big part of who I have become. Other's of you have been lucky enough to be a part of their lives. 

Bill and Carol Shivers are a great example of simple people who have proven God's love through their marriage and family. Last weekend they had their entire family present as they renewed their marriage vows after 50 years. That is a long time to be married, and it is so uncommon these days. It made me smile to watch my grandmother look at my grandfather with such respect and admiration after all these years. It is obvious to me that they have really trusted in God to protect their marriage. I know life was never a cake-walk for them, but they stuck together through it all. 

My Grandpa is a respectable man who has obviously lead his family in Christ. He would put anybody before himself.  And as sarcastic as he may be sometimes, it is obvious that he loves my grandma more than anything in this world. My Grandmother is a sweet woman who respects her husband and loves the Lord with her whole heart. She takes time to talk to every person that crosses her path, and she has such a servant's heart. Together they have been a perfect reflection of God's love. 

My dad pointed out to us that our family is a true testimony of how God can work through a family, generation after generation. Bill and Carol have been fruitful, and out of all three of their children and spouses, their ten grandchildren and spouses, and even their great-grandchildren, every single one of them know the Lord. 

I know nothing could mean more to my grandparents on that day than to see their entire family together at one time. Bill and Carol Shivers will always carry a legacy in our family. I admire them more than they know. They have passed their family values and faith in God down to our parents, and now we have it. There is nothing more I want at the end of my life than to be surrounded by God's love and my family and friends, just as they are. I pray my husband and I will have a marriage that reflects God's love just as theirs does. They are truly my heros. 

p.s. To all the cousins reading this... I'm not sucking up and trying to be the favorite grandkid.... we all know if you are married or have a baby, you are automatically the favorite =) j/k.