memorial day

better to spend your time at funerals than at parties.
After all, everyone dies – so the living should take this to heart.
Sorrow is better than laughter,
because sadness has a refining influence on us.
A wise person thinks a lot about death,
while a fool thinks only about having a good time.

Honeymoon

Posted this on the videoblog a few days ago, but here it is on the main site now. I’ll try to post some pictures at some point. Our honeymoon was fantastic – relaxing in every way. Getting back into the real world… not quite so…

the vows

These, my wedding vows…

Today I pledge myself to you in the sacred bond and covenant of marriage.

Each morning I will remember the blessings you bring to my life, giving thanks to God for drawing us together as one.

I will daily strive to be more Christ-like in my thoughts and my actions, learning to embrace and express the perfect love of Jesus in our marriage.

I will listen to and respect your feelings and desires, valuing your thoughts and opinions as we make decisions through life.

When we disagree, I will look first for my own failures and shortcomings.
When I am wrong, I will admit it quickly.
When I am wronged, I will forgive unconditionally.
In both joy and sorrow, I will support and encourage you.

Today I promise these things to you
before God and in the presence of those we love –
a covenant between us for as long as we both shall live.

the call of Christ

The call of Christ:

Look past the surface to see the reality of who people are.
Treat all people with dignity and respect – even those who are different.
Seek to heal divisions instead of creating them;
and remember your own humble position before the ruler of Heaven –
standing firm not in your own strength,
but in the richness and power
of the Holy blood of Christ.