February 19

When I was growing up, my parents always brought my sister and I along on their anniversary dates.  The four of us would dress up and head out together for a fancy dinner.  We celebrated what God had done - this family that He had held together through many storms.

I’ll never forget that bitter cold February morning 10 years ago when Sean and I loaded our own little family up into the car to head to the airport - first to MAF headquarters, then to Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, and eventually on to Indonesia.  As we turned out of their driveway after a frantic and emotional morning, the hard lump in my chest suddenly exploded as I realized the date – my parent’s anniversary.  With a bitter swallow, I knew that the new normal for us would not include being together on February 19. 

There have been a few special years.  I surprised my parents for their 40^thyear together, bringing my toddler and newborn on an ill-advised (but worthwhile) journey from Ecuador.  One year, Sean’s training brought us all back for a few weeks in February.  Most years, though, I only get to make a phone call…so long as our Internet, electricity, and a million other little factors align just right.

A year ago, while we were on furlough, I had a precious opportunity to join my parents as they celebrated their 47^th  wedding anniversary.  Together, finally, we gathered around a small table in a candlelit restaurant in the snowy Colorado mountains.  The evening ended with an impromptu slow dance in the snow on the street, Dad whirling first Mom, then each of his daughters to the crooning voice of Alan Jackson as it played over the speakers of Dad’s truck.

This year, I’m calling my parents again from my Indonesia home, wishing them a happy anniversary and remembering that steak dinner a year ago. Together, we’ll reminisce and recognize God’s hand in our lives, still deeply connected but separated by thousands of miles.  We’ll remember the One who sustains us, and we’ll give Him praise for the days we’re together…and the days in between.   

All because two people fell in love....