Enduring love...

I've had this Valentine's post in progress for several days.  So, may as well go ahead and post it--better late than never! . . . ♥ . . . The Amundson's celebrated Valentine's Day as a family this year.   Nothing fancy, but it was a special day. We exchanged Valentines and Mike took his two girls out to Noodles and Company for supper. While Mike and I--obviously--didn't compare notes ahead of time, there was a common theme in the cards that we got for each other:  Always.  It's a theme that's been on our hearts a lot lately... Mainly because, to be honest, we've been seeing marriages crumbling all around us. Sometimes I almost start to feel numb because I feel like I don't have the tears left to grieve anymore for the broken promises and shattered dreams of so many people that we've loved over the years. Love... It never gives up... Never loses faith... Is always hopeful... And endures through every circumstance. Several years ago, I went through a "sign making" phase.  I made this one to display in our bedroom: 

 At the time, it seemed like a nice little token of affection to display in our room.  But there have been several times lately when I've walked into our room and paused for a moment to ponder that thought and give thanks for my marriage...   Forever.  For always.  And no matter what. While I'm learning--over and over again--that there isn't a single marriage that is "untouchable" in this fallen world, I am so thankful for the man that God gave to me.  He is demonstrating that he is committed--for better or worse--and we've had to walk through quite a bit of both lately. If there's one thought that I could leave with all of you as we reflect on Valentine's Day...   Regardless of your circumstances...   If you are swarming with little ones in your home...   If you are short on money or going through health struggles...   If there are family situations that are making your life difficult or complicated...   Whatever you may be going through...  Make time to invest in your marriage.    Never in history have Christian marriages been more under attack...  or more vulnerable to attack.  The evil one delights in broken homes and he's on the prowl...  looking for marriages to devour.