Bridal shower blessings

     "Immature love says, 'I love you, because I need you.'  Mature love says, 'I need you, because I love you.'  Marriage is a gift from God, and a part of His plan for us humans."   

     These were my beginning words to my granddaughter, Sarah, as I presented my gift to her at the bridal shower that my daughters and I hosted in her honour, last week. 

     What can be more exciting than planning a family wedding? 

     Excitement is already running high, having just received our invitations — which, by the way, are a work of art, designed by this creative couple, Sarah and Tyler. 

     My family room was tastefully decorated for the event by Debi, and 'bursting at the seams' with close to 20, noisy, talkative ladies. 

     Three and a half year old Evelyn Jane, my great-granddaughter — and our youngest guest — arrived with her purse-in-hand, ready for the purse game, announcing this was an 'all-girls party' only! 

     Noisy, fun games, led by Krista, were interspersed with delicious finger foods that Karen kept replenishing — the crab puffs were awesome! 

     To have Sarah's grandma Marian and her mom Carolyn from Kamloops as my guests on the weekend, all added to the fun and excitement. 

     Each lovely gift Sarah opened, I can imagine, stirred a new excitement for her, as she envisioned using them in her own home. 

     My gift to her — being rather unique — showed a couple praying together. 

     The following verses from Ephesians 4: 2-3, was carved on its front: "Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace." 

     This gift inspired me to encourage Sarah with the following words: 

     "With the exception of our love-relationship with Jesus, nothing in life is more beautiful or satisfying than the loving relationship of a husband and wife. 

     There is no such thing as a perfect marriage. That is why we must 'let grace abound towards each other,' and be ready to forgive often." 

     During your Grandpa Nels and my 55 years of marriage, we had a house rule based on wise scripture, 'to never go to bed angry,' but to always make sure we were at peace with each other at the close of each day. 

     This included our children as well. May your faith never fade, as together you seek God when times get tough, and praise Him when blessings abound. 

     And — may you never forget the reasons you fell in love in the first place."    

     So, Sarah, make memories that will bring smiles and sighs — whenever you look back.   

"A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her... She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life..."   

— Proverbs 31:10-12

— beulah