What a beautiful expression. And like most truly meaningful expressions it comes from the scriptures. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Love thy neighbor as thy self. A man can not love two masters, as he will love one and hate the other.
Each of these marvelous and thoughtful phrases finds its origin in the Bible. I happen to love Eph 5:25-28.
25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.
Yesterday I went shopping for my wife. We are taking a vacation in a few weeks along the Yucatan Peninsula. The weather will certainly be very warm and require some light clothing. My wife Toni expressed she wished she could find a nice flowing skirt and comfortable top to match. Well today I set off to find these items. I admit I did have help from a church member who suggested some very nice department stores and shops.
Two hours in, I was whipped. Not a single garment to be found after no less than 12 shops and three floors of mall. I was hungry and my feet were getting tried. But I was determined. This is for my baby and I knew Toni would appreciate the garments and look cute in them.
Thus, it was off to the food court to eat and rejuvenate. Twenty minutes later I was back at. One and a half hours more of describing the items I wanted for the ump-teenth time left weary. But I love my wife as Christ loves the church.
With a smile on my face I went to the next to last shop where another attendant listened to me describe the garments I was looking for and she said “Follow me I have the skirt.” Better yet she had two. They were both lovely and the right size. Now for the blouse. We found only one blouse, but again it was perfect as if would coordinate with both skirts. Whoo hoo!
The true fruit was coming home. I secretly went in our bedroom before going to see Toni. I eagerly got her to go to our bedroom to she the garments. Toni was so pleased. It had been nearly a week since she mentioned the items and only once. Guys, there is nothing better you can do than demonstrate to your wife you listen to her. Nothing!
I clean the sinks in our kitchen the way my wife likes it after I heard here demonstrate a particular method to my daughter. In coming weeks Toni saw me consistently using the method with out prompting. The appreciation she shared in words for this simple loving act were in describable.
I thank the Father for my bride and I tell Toni that as often as I can. Husbands love your wife as Christ loved the church and you will be richly blessed.
See you next Sunday,
MJ
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.