Saturday, May 19, 2018

Whole Heart - Whole Life

Daily Gratitude Year 6- Day 139: Today, I am grateful for a front row seat at a royal wedding, compliments of the BBC. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were married today. Like much of the world, I was watching. There has been something about this love story that is extra sweet. Harry and Meghan both seem to want to touch the hurting and reach out to the wounded. The want to be sincere and real amongst the people and the charities they serve and support. They have both lived in worlds where much is put on for show... but it does not satisfy. 

Can it be, this young couple... in spite of the paparazzi, cameras, social media and complicated families... have found something special together? I hope so. 

The stories of the two of them that come after the cameras are the most touching. Tales of their repeat visits to the places and missions that pull at their heartstrings. 

It appears to me, that these two people came together at just the right time, for a real and deep connection.

 Although the media makes us feel as if we know them, and we do have some snapshots into their stories, none of us truly knows their hearts. Yet, there is something about the way they look at each other and lean into each others that speaks volumes about two people who have found their way to each other... and found a home. 

She grew up around celebrities and the ways of Hollywood. He grew up royal. She seems to not be afraid of hard work and has a determined spirit. He knew greater luxuries, but found a real sense of purpose during his years in the royal military service followed by his creation of the Invictus Games helping wounded soldiers to be athletic warriors again. 

They both seem to have a work ethic and an understanding that their privileged lifestyles are not normal. It makes them very likeable. He seems sentimental and tender toward her. She seems to lean into him with a sense of wonder that he gets her, loves her and truly likes her. At the time they came together, they had started to come into their own. Then, love changed everything. 

I imagine they have lived under a microscope since going public with their relationship. What started in secret was precious, but to move forward, they had to face the cameras, their families and friends. Today, 10 million or more watched them say "I Do". 

The Rev. Michael Curry gave a dynamic message that spoke the truth and hope in the gospel of love as it manifests through Jesus. They took their vows, made in a holy covenant sealed by God and in front of human witnesses. Their smiles said it all. Some were intimate, as they likely read each other's thoughts, and others were joy bursting grins out of pure celebration. "Stand By Me" was the perfect song for the unique fabric of the new life Harry and Meghan will weave together. 

We all love a fairytale; the truth is that real love is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Love conquers fear and heals the deepest wounds. Love does not put up lines that divide. Love tears down walls. Love says "I'm sorry." Love forgives.  Love says, "I will wait for you." Love says, "We can face each new day... the happy and the hard... together. Love brings out the best in us. 

The Spirit of our Living Lord showed up at the royal ceremony. I do hope they invite Him into the marriage. They came together in a way that seems to be against all odds. Fairytale?  Love conquered all the obstacles in their way, bringing them to this special day. Love will make it last. 

I hope they remember, God is love.

No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. - 1 John 4:12 

Weddings, births and funerals are sacred moments. Love makes this crazy ride on our lovely blue planet worthwhile. God's love brings it to full expression. It was a beautiful day for a wedding. 

Today, I am grateful for a front row seat at a royal wedding, compliments of the BBC. 


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