Jan is in the kitchen baking apple and pumpkin pies. This is a yearly tradition in our home in preparation for Christmas gatherings. Our home is being filled with the aromas of her acts of love. 

As I listened to the sounds of Jan baking, I realized just how blessed I am to have this woman in my life. I called out to Jan from the living room and said, “I feel safe with your love.” Jan replied, “I trust your love too.” 

Over the last 49 years of our marriage, we have come to understand that forgiveness resets our hearts to our original commitment. Without forgiveness, love cannot mature. A trusted love creates an environment for love to become more than we could ever imagine. That’s the power of a relationship of commitment between two imperfect people whose relationship is rooted in the unconditional love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.