As Resurrection Sunday approached, I began asking the Lord what to share with you. I’m away at the Mt. Hermon writer’s conference, deep in the redwood forests of California, and this is the story God whispered to my heart—from over thirty-five years ago.

My high-school sweetheart, David, was preparing for college. (Actually, the Bible school he attended was just a few miles away from where I sit to write this newsletter.) Before he left for Bible college, he placed some business details in order—one being a certificate of deposit at the bank where he tucked all of his earnings aside. He calculated by the time he graduated, four years later, the interest from his investment would be enough to purchase an engagement/wedding ring for me. The rest would serve as a downpayment on a house in time.

I figured my diligent guy who had been so resolute in finishing college would likely wait to pop the question until after he secured THE JOB. Imagine my surprise when he proposed a week after graduation. And then to find out he’d schemed it this way long ago. It was a sacrificial plan. It meant very little spending money during college.

As we near the sacrifice of our Lord, it helps to ponder stories that convey sacrifice, heart, and forethought. Thank You, God, for making a plan to redeem us. Thank You, Jesus for being willing to come and endure the cross in our place. Thank you for loving us before the beginning of time and for the gifts you have lavished on us.

When He ascended on high,
He led captivity captive,
And gave gifts to men. Ephesians 4:8

Part of David and my strategy for purity in a long-term relationship was not to talk about marriage until it was eminent. When David later shared the story about the forethought that went into my ring, it brought tears to my eyes. Here I thought he’d nearly forgotten me. Sure, he sent letters. But as the 4 years and 750 miles apart grew on me, I started to lose hope of getting married. He told me his plan when he first asked me to be part of his world. Time and distance can mess with your mind.

I remember playing with the sparkle of the diamond and holding his hand—heart dancing. He hadn’t wavered in his love. He hadn’t changed his mind. He had a plan. I was in his thoughts. Four months later we were happily married—and what a day of celebration!

So, too, our Lord Jesus created a plan:

• made a costly sacrifice
• went away with a promise to return for us, His bride

“…who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross…” Hebrews 12:2-3

Are you trusting His commitment?

Are you ready?

Let’s do three things in honor of resurrection Sunday:

• Literally gush over Jesus for His incredible sacrifice to regain us
• Commit our hearts to Him, all over again
• Ask Him how we can best prepare for His return

It’s a BEAUTIFUL love with which He loves us. May we never get over it.

Rejoice! You are dearly loved,

Melinda Poling