The simplicity and purity of love makes you dedicated, committed and willing to sacrifice for the one you love no matter the cost. Last night at the RoadShow 2017 Concert in Indianapolis, Indiana I witnessed such love when Pastor Ryan carried his wife of 15 years (Heather Biddinger) on his right shoulder as they went up and down the stairs at the Bankers Life Fieldhouse arena. Before I even introduced myself and asked their names, "he carried her" and that's all that I saw my heart was overwhelmed with love and gratitude. Carried means: "support and move (someone or something) from one place to another." The joy of having someone in your corner who can do that selflessly is beyond words!
You see, Heather has an incurable autoimmune disease that she has lived with for the past 10 years--I didn't know this at the time when I was inspired by their walk as I watched them go up the stairs. When Heather sat back down, I introduced myself and mentioned that I write this blog (wheniwake.com) so I was inspired by them and wanted to dedicate today's inspiration in their honor. Then Heather told me "I'm dying... there is no cure." My heart sank... but I also rejoiced that Pastor Ryan was right there by her side through the whole process... this journey. And, if you saw Heather sitting down, so full of life, you would never have known her battle. That's rejoicing in your afflictions and trusting God no matter what!
No one ever has to do anything for anyone, because they can never do it well unless they are doing it out of true love. Fake/pretentious love/effort doesn't last... if anything... it drains you! But true love sacrifices unconditionally. So, love will give you the strength, joy and hope to keep holding on. Jesus went to Calvary carrying the cross for you and me because of His deep, everlasting, unconditional, selfless and true love.
Think about who needs you to "carry" them today, or in their season/journey? Take a leaf from Pastor Ryan and Heather's journey. Live life to the fullest, enjoying every moment because that's what counts--this moment, today! Love with reckless abandonment--and carry the one you love (spouse, child, parent, sibling, friend, etc.) with no complaints. Whatever that carrying looks like (or needs to be) for you (and them)... Be present... be fully present today. Find a way to overcome whatever challenges come your way... together!
