I’m so glad they asked me. I really am.
They live in Texas now, but they were married at First Methodist Church in Lake Charles sixty years ago. He called on the telephone to ask if I would be willing to do a renewal of their marriage vows at the church on a Thursday morning, on the day of their anniversary at the church. He wanted to surprise her. And he sure did.
She thought they were taking a quick trip to Lake Charles to celebrate their anniversary. Then he suggested going by the church just to see it once again.
Once they came inside, the trap was sprung. Their daughter and a few family members were waiting inside. A white veil was placed on her head . . . and we had a brief ceremony at the altar of the church to renew their wedding vows.
It was simple and meaningful. “For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, til death do us part.” Everyone had tears in their eyes. Husband, wife, daughter, family, custodian, preacher.
Sixty years of walking the same journey together. Sixty years of commitment and faithfulness. It was certainly a day to celebrate. It was a precious moment in life’s grand adventure.
Being a pastor has its ups and downs, but a brief service of renewal with an older couple the other day reminded me why I love it so.
I am so glad they asked me.