Set Aside

One year ago today, overlooking the beach and crashing waves of Canada's rugged west coast, Chris and I became husband and wife. It was a spectacular day; one of those days where every joyous moment is captured in slow motion and remembered in perfect detail - even a year later. But apart from the inevitable emotions and wonderful memories that come with getting married, what stands out most about our wedding day was the very clear knowledge and understanding we shared, and continue to share, about the significance and purpose of our marriage. With total assurance, we both knew that God had purposefully set us aside for each other and had intended for us to come together as man and wife at that moment in our lives. The lyrics of the song my brother wrote and sang for us on our wedding day captured these sentiments perfectly...

The morning played like a scene

Flowing through the web of her dreams

Pictured in a hidden time

She would find a way through the years

When nothing came across clear

Just mirrors to an open sky

But all along she knew

There was someone who was set aside to love her true

And one day he would appear

And find a way to win her heart and draw her near

Peering back through the years

In a maze that brought himself near

Nearer to his painted bride

He would follow fate's hidden way

And change the course of his day

With a Father who would be his guide

And all along he new

There was someone who was set aside to love him true

And one day she would appear

Her beauty would unlock his heart and draw him near

Now there's another heart to call their own

Inside of another soul where their love has found its home

There is another life to cherish as they grow

Man and wife, set aside

I'm far from saying that the knowledge of being 'set aside' guards us against the unforeseen challenges of marriage. I can promise you that quitting jobs, leaving close family and friends, and moving to a new country - all within our first year of marriage - brings with it some pretty big challenges. However, I can still say that amidst all of this change, I am still able to thank God every day for the honour and privilege of being Chris' wife because I know that he was set aside for me.

Chris, I love you. You are my gift from God. I can't wait to see what Year #2 brings!