June 1, 2020

Friday afternoon, Houston sent the following text:  “Happy Anniversary this coming week.  I think.”

That was the moment I realized I had completely forgotten my wedding anniversary. 

I said a prayer thanking God for Houston’s wonderful memory and headed into the house to ask Shannon what gift she wanted for our anniversary.

I walked in, gave Shannon a big hug and said, “What gift would you like for our wedding anniversary?”

As the color drained from Shannon’s face, she said, “Oh my gosh, with everything going on in the world, I completely forgot.  I am so sorry.”  I was devastated.

 I explained that a loving wife would never forget her wedding anniversary, it was clear that she took me for granted, and I was deeply hurt.  Then I said, “I forgot too.”

That’s when I remembered how hard Shannon can hit.

It is clear that one of the reasons our marriage works so well is because Shannon understands the need to forgive.  And while I think being married to me would be nothing but wedded bliss, I have a sneaking suspicion there are times when I get on Shannon’s nerves.  But even though she may been tempted to put a pillow over my face when I am sleeping and collect the insurance money, she chooses to forgive.  And by doing so, she is fulfilling God’s will.

Forgiveness is so important in the life of a follower of Christ, that immediately after teaching his disciples the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus says:  “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”  (Matthew 6:14-15)

I truly believe one of the essential keys to a successful marriage and a blessed life is based on forgiving others.  It makes life so much easier.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me to immediately forgive any offense.  Help me to ask forgiveness from those I have hurt.  Let your love shine through me.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

A few years ago, when we were driving down the road, Shannon said, “If something happens to me, I want you to find someone.”  Before I thought it through, I said, “Oh honey, you have ruined me for all women.”

That’s when I remembered how hard Shannon can hit.

Just for the record, Shannon has never actually hit me but I know she has been tempted.  Thank God for forgiveness.

If Shannon can forgive me, you can forgive others.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins