Malia and I just returned from Nebraska and Kansas City. One of my goals was to purge and pack the remaining “things” Beckie and I had stored there (for over 20 years!). Malia and I discussed “being present” during our trip, being flexible while giving our schedules, and “to-do list” to God daily – throughout the day. And sure enough…
…Joe and Mary from Malia’s church invited us to lunch. I met them on previous trips at church, but they wanted to bless Malia (and me:) with lunch before we left town.
Malia and I began asking them about their family, marriage, how they met… and the conversation got deep fast! Joe was from Palau and went to school at Midland University there in Fremont, NE.
Celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary this year, they described the great tensions and trials they went through as a bi-racial couple 50-plus years ago. Not to mention Joe’s drinking issue got worse, got in trouble with the law… and his extramarital affairs didn’t make life easy for Mary, her parents, and her family. Mary discovered 5 years into their marriage (with their own 5 & 3-year-old daughters) that “another child” was on their way, with another woman.
Joe and Mary were so lovingly transparent, even with their current struggles and challenges involving their “blended family.” They spoke of God’s grace, love, and forgiveness… revealing Himself and giving them strength to grow in Jesus and as a couple. I’m glad we said yes to having lunch with them during our busy week. Thank you, Jesus!
