Twenty-nine Februarys past, I look back to see a silly young woman courted by the man who still holds my heart. I was startled by his little token of love that first day of February. The card dripped sweetly of romance and future dreams, held by a fluffy white bear with red heart emblazoned on his chest. I still have that treasure. Each day from the first of February through the 14th, his gifts of love kept coming.
His vows were given to me the following September as we voiced our commitment of marital love before God, family, and friends. Through the years, the passions of young love have matured, ripened, and deepened into a rich fellowship of oneness. But every February 1st, my heart returns to that first season of young love. And I am once again a young woman with fresh tingles and smiles, so thankful to the Father for every good and perfect gift He has given—most especially for the man He chose for me.
"Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest, so is my beloved among the young men. In his shade I took great delight and sat down, and his fruit was sweet to my taste" (Song of Solomon 2:3).
Returning to seasons of young love can refresh a weary heart—young marital love as well as young love for the Savior. I encourage you to spend some time returning today. Refresh your heart toward the Lord by returning to the early days of His wooing, His courting. Allow your mind to recount the many details of His sovereign pursuit. Let your heart be recaptured by His ardent love. Return. Remember. Recount. Be refreshed.
If you are married, I encourage you to apply this practice to your marital relationship as well—often. Communicate to your man words of affirmation. Use the words of a lover, a close confidante, a true friend. Thank him for pursuing you, for winning your heart, and for walking with you through the years.
And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful (Colossians 3:14–15).
Anyone care to share stories of love pursuits? I'd love to hear how the Savior captured your heart (or your man, as well!).
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