Welcome to Hank’s Place
Coming to you from Venice, FL on this December 4th, the first Sunday of Advent.
[Mary appears, “Hank, it’s also our 46th wedding anniversary! Why don’t you share a bit about our wonderful love story!”]
YES, great idea, Mary! I’m happy to share a little. I recall we met in May of ’74, and by Dec ’75 were ready to go our own ways; just another in a string of failed relationships. But Jesus Christ burst on the scene the next month. We both were totally and radically born again! New creations, filled with the Holy Spirit. We didn’t know who we were, and found we didn’t know each other! We continued dating, constantly going to church.
In Sept of ’76 in a Saturday morning men’s meeting at the church, the pastor unexpectedly laid hands on me to do what was in my heart. I’d had enough painful heart experiences, so much so that I’d closed it up pretty darn good. Even from myself. Only God knew what was in there. Well, the next day I proposed to Mary! Unexpectedly! Unplanned! I was as shocked as she was to hear those proposal words springing from my lips!
Three months later we married, each of us placing our fears and past experiences on the altar for Jesus to deal with. In faith. With a little trepidation.
And sure, there were bumps. Why would that be? One answer is found in Hank’s Place #378, “Marriage Rules.” I was trying to live by law, to ‘do the right thing’ – and that simply does not work.
And both of us needed to open our hearts to Jesus, our Heavenly Father, and one another. Slowly we began to live in the love of God.
More than once we were at opposite ends of the house after an argument — and then found ourselves simultaneously coming to one another asking forgiveness and seeking reconciliation. Yes, we certainly gave the Holy Spirit work to do!
The more we asked and received the love of God for ourselves, the more love we had to share with each other. If I could make one suggestion, it’s for YOU to pray daily to receive more of the love of God. Soon you will have plenty to walk in and to give away!
Recently, I won’t say how recently, as His love was percolating in me, I began realizing that my dream gal as a young man – drum roll – was my wife! Jesus had brought the woman of my dreams, the one He had fashioned for me, to me! Surprise! Something like when God brought Eve to Adam. Guys, you don’t turn your back on a gift like that!!!
Today dear friends, allow God to tenderize your heart, to heal it from past hurts and filling it with His love. Soon your life, and your marriage —will COME ALIVE! And if you want to hear what Mary has to say, just let us know.
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