Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: The Reflection
Peering into the water from a rickety bridge, Rich was taken back by the vastness of the lake.
He and Carol could see their reflections rippling on the surface. Their faces looked distorted and at times almost unrecognizable.
“What if I looked like this all the time?” Rich said jokingly.
“I would still love you,” Carol said.
Carol’s words resounded loudly in his ear. He knew he would remember them. It was a pivotal moment in their marriage.
I think of the love my wife gives me at times even when I don’t deserve it. Sometimes, my attitude doesn’t reflect Jesus. I am not measuring on a human scale–and in other people’s eyes, it may not be a big deal–but when I think of how loving our spouses reflects God’s love, I stand in awe. God loves us so much even though we don’t deserve His love.
Lord you’re so kind and tenderhearted to those who don’t deserve it and so patient with people who fail you. Your love is like a flooding river overflowing its banks with kindness
~Psalm 103:8-9 TPT
What is more amazing is that Jesus sees our distorted attitude and sinful ways and still chooses to love us. He doesn’t enjoy our wayward ways, but His love for us is unconditional. Paul says, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children and walk in love just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma” (Ephesians 5:1,2 NIV).
Jesus challenges us to reflect Him in our daily walk, especially regarding our marriages. This is not always easy. It requires us to see beyond the surface and appearances.
Friend, I challenge you to look beyond the ripples of pain and hurt to envision the plan God has for your marriage. Jesus can look beyond the distortions to see with purposed eyes the magnificent plan He has for your life and marriage. Imagine, with eyes of faith, God’s plan for your loved ones. He wants us to reflect His love so others can see His vastness through us.
In what areas are you reflecting Christ in your marriage?
Heavenly Father, thank You for reflecting Your love through others. Help me to see those areas underneath the surface that cry for Your attention. Thank You for being patient with me even when what You see may not reflect Your true image. Thank You for helping me every step of the way and for helping me to be patient with my family as You transform them.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Genre: Anecdotal story, fiction; Commentary, Non-fiction
Copyright 2020: The Reflection: Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: All Rights Reserved.