Romance & Chivalry.

When we look at classic romance stories they generally have a common theme wherein the two lovers strive to overcome obstacles (whether it be internal or brought about by an outside source) that keep them from being together: Romeo & Juliet, Elizabeth Bennett & Mr. Darcy, Tristan & Isolde, Odysseus & Penelope, Robin Hood & Maid Marian, Eloise & Abelard, Lancelot & Guinevere, Cleopatra & Mark Antony to name a few. In some stories the lovers end up together & in some they are tragically separated. The part that impassions us is the fight. We love to see the ardent love between two people struggle against all odds & sacrifice of themselves in order to end up together. As a woman, I'm infatuated with the chivalry of it all- watching the man view the woman as a treasured possession who's honor he's brave enough to defend.

I've been reading through the Old Testament beginning back in February. My purpose in that is to develop a sense of God's processes- we're under a new covenant through Jesus Christ, but He's still the same God that He was before time began & His grace & love for us have not changed. In the Garden of Eden, before the fall of man, God was able to be present with Adam & Eve. Because they had not sinned yet, His holiness would not kill them. After the first sin, it created a separation between God & man. Reading through Exodus 19, God descended upon Mount Sinai in a thick cloud to be present with His people. Throughout the Old Testament, we are continually made aware of His desire to be with us & to create a way to overcome the separation in order that we will end up together, as was purposed. He's burning with passionate & irrevocable love for us.  As the Author of love & chivalry, our courageous God provides the ultimate expression of His love- He defends our honor, fights for us, dies for us, & rescues us from our fate in order that we can experience the intimacy of His presence as was intended from the beginning. We are His treasured possession.

It's funny that I adore the classic love stories & overlook the fact that I'm in the midst of experiencing the greatest romance the world has ever known. My prayer is for God to daily sweep me off of my feet, & I look forward to growing more in love with Him at every moment.

"Always dance with the One who brought you."