Exactly 50 years and four months ago, on March 30, 1974, my wife Pam and I were married at Christ Lutheran Church in Fairfax, Virginia. I was 21 years old and she had just turned 21. Pam was—and still is—the greatest surprise of my life. I was shocked that someone as wonderful as Pam had any interest in me at all. My parents were surprised and delighted at my good luck. My friends wondered—like I did—why she was interested in me, so I've always said that I married up! Today, let's listen to a passage of Scripture that has been my “life verse” for nearly all of my adult life:

Let your fountain be blessed and rejoice with the wife of your youth. (Prov. 5:18)

Isn't this a great passage! Throughout our years together, God has used Pam in my life, and me in her’s, to bring counsel, direction and joy. Her wisdom and honesty continue to flow into my life like the overflowing fountain from today's passage. We’ve faced the ups and downs of life together with joy, tears, and laughter. She encourages me to do the right thing. We’ve prayed together and painted the garage together. God has blessed us with love and friendship but that's just the merest taste of His lovingkindness. Consider for a moment the wonderful relationships you’ve enjoyed in your life so far: parents, grandparents, husbands and wives, children, friends and neighbors, and others. God has made us for relationships and sent these people into our lives.

Today, take a few moments to praise God and thank Him for everyone He’s sent into your life. God has created loving relationships for us to enjoy and be encouraged...and that is very Good News!