No matter how pure the
intention or motive, loving acts may not always be well received. Sadly, this
happens even in the case of married couples, who once pledged unfailing love
for one another.
In the movie Fireproof, fireman Caleb tries to
salvage his troubled marriage. On his dad’s suggestion, he painstakingly
follows the steps outlined in the book, The Love Dare, to show love and
consideration to his wife, Catherine. For example, he helps to wash the dishes
and even prepares a candlelight dinner for two.
But though he carries out all
the instructions (40 steps, one a day), his efforts are constantly rebuffed. “How am I supposed to show love to somebody who constantly rejects me?” he
utters in frustration to his dad.
Only when he understands
that true love is unconditional – the way God loves sinners – and perseveres does he experience a
breakthrough and saves his marriage. Indeed, “love bears all things, believes
all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7).
While Valentine’s day and
other romantic occasions have a place in marriage, couples would do well to
remember the importance of mutual
commitment through thick and thin over the years.
God compares marriage, the
sacred institution He established, to the relationship between Christ and the
church. Both were meant to last.
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