Before transiting to expression of love in the fellowship, I would conclude the treatise on marriage with a note of encouragement. Nearly three years ago as I turned 70, some of my brethren set up an experience sharing session with me. Much of the night went well but as went into the Q&A, I was asked what the things were that I failed at or could have done better! Knowing where you failed is one thing, but admitting it publicly was a different thing. It was however the first thing to correcting errors and healing years of just accommodation, and not God’s intended relationship. I openly admitted I could have treated my wife better! The high-nosed, condescending attitude that characterized my relationship did not produce God’s desired relationship; yet it was the beginning of me understanding the nature of Christ’s love.

In three years of walking in vulnerability and unconditional love (gbami b’oti ri mi) I have seen an unbelievable transformation and happiness that neither wealth nor status can give. It was as we spent time in Rio de Janeiro on the occasion of our 48th wedding anniversary and after the Crossover ministration that the Lord began to speak to me on what has been shared in the last four postings; and more to charge every couple that the time for positive change and reconciliation is here, both in our homes and in the fellowship.

**Anniversaries are often the hardest when we think of where we started but we also need to remember we have a God who brings beauty from ashes. Maybe this year’s anniversary isn’t so much a celebration as it is a sorrow. I want to I remind you of three things:

1. You are not alone. Even in that darkest valley, the Lord who loves you with an everlasting love is with you.
2. Your tears are not unnoticed. When the ache of grief feels too much to bear, remember our tears are kept in the Lord’s bottle and recorded in His book (Psalm 56:8). He sees and He knows.
3. You have hope. Jesus reminded us there would be trouble in this world. He knew the ache of betrayal, the depth of grief, and yet He assures us of His peace (John 14:27), the truest peace that opens the door to the hope we have in Him. **Taken from DaySpring

**When the hard days come, we can be assured God’s love is real. And we find assurance of His tender cares and mercies throughout Scripture. Rest there, even in your grief, knowing He is at work and He brings new mercies every morning** but be ready to take the first step to change. I did three years ago, and those who were present will remember it. The Lord saw us this far as we committed to those two principles of the love of Christ shed abroad in our hearts. It will take this for our scripture text to hold in your life. Shalom.

Pastor Afolabi Oladele