“Ordinary” Love

“Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us.”  Ephesians 5:2

We’ve been talking about romantic love and how to preserve it. There are times in every marriage, however, when husbands and wives feel apathetic and “flat” toward each other. Jim wrote me the following note during just such a time, which occurred

on our eighth wedding anniversary: “I’m sure you remember the many occasions during our eight years of marriage when the tide of love and affection soared high above the crest. This kind of intense emotion often accompanies a time of particular hap‐piness. We felt this closeness when the world’s most precious child came home from the maternity ward. But emotions are strange! We felt the same closeness when you were hospitalized last year. I felt it intensely when I knelt over your unconscious form after a grinding automobile accident.

“Both happiness and threat bring overwhelming appreciation and affection for our sweethearts. But most of life is composed of calm, every‐day events. During those times, I enjoy the serene love that actually sur‐passes the effervescent display. I find myself in that kind of love on this anniversary. I feel the steady, quiet affection that comes from a devoted heart. I am committed to you and your happiness now more than ever.

“When events throw us together emotionally, we will enjoy the thrill and romantic excitement. But during life’s routine, my love stands undiminished. Happy anniversary to my wonderful wife.”

Just between us . . .

• When has our marriage provided the most romantic excitement?
• How can serene love enhance romance between us?
• Do we enjoy this kind of love? Why or why not?

Dear God, thank You for the intense feelings that accompany romantic love. Help us cherish them. May our love also remain strong and enduring on ordinary days or when feelings are at ebb tide. Amen.

Listen to today's broadcast of Dr. James Dobson's Family Talk at OnePlace.com.  For more from Dr. Dobson, visit the resource center at drjamesdobson.org.

This devotional is taken from Night Light for Couples. Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission.