Alzheimer’s has robbed Michael Joyce of his memory, so he forgot he’s married to his wife of 38 years.
Uniquely, he knows he loves her, so he asked her to marry him. Linda agreed, thinking he would soon forget, but he didn’t. The next morning the 68-year-old Michael asked, “When are we doing this?” That question began the process of putting together a plan for the married couple which live together in Frankton, New Zealand, to once again wed.
Michael woke up on their wedding day and proclaimed, “Today’s the day!”
They exchanged vows at a scenic lake near their home on January 20, 2018 with friends and family gathered to support them. The 64-year-old wife/bride wrote, “Amidst the often sad and frustrating times living with Alzheimer’s… there is joy!”* The resilience of love has a way of pleasantly surprising us.
Love is more than just a feeling, it is actions founded upon the commitment one has for another. The original language of the Bible uses different words for love. Each word has their own meaning and their own purpose.
In the marriage relationship, the commitment one has for the others is shown, not just in the word, “love” but in the actions shown. Those actions consist of honor, respect, commitment, protection and grace. Take a moment and read through Ephesians 5.21-33 and notices the actions of love between husbands and wives.
Further, notice how the love of a husband and wife is compared to Christ and the church.
Just a thought,
*Source: Beaumont Enterprise, 1/26/18