The Honeymoon phase is the idealistic time in a marriage when everything seems perfect and the future is bright. You easily focus on all the things you love about your partner and can’t imagine your life without them. Sure, people warn you about the potential problems you’ll face in the future, but you’re certain that doesn’t apply to you. All is right in the world, until it’s not.
Don’t start sending me counseling resources just yet – my marriage is great! However, I believe the honeymoon phase applies to more than just relationships. Like many marriages that fail when this period comes to an end, we can experience failure in other areas of our life too if we aren’t prepared.
Right now in our church planting world it feels like we are in the honeymoon phase. God is building an amazing team of people to go on this journey with us. There is a spirit of unity and excitement among us. Our financial needs are being met in the most unexpected ways and we are witnessing the body of Christ at work. Of course there are also moments that we feel completely overwhelmed, but everything seems to be falling into place and the future is bright
However, when it comes to lake life the honeymoon phase is coming to an end. I still love living on the lake, but the reality is some days it is difficult and frustrating. Spiders disrupt my quiet time. The wind rocks my world, literally, making me anxious and queasy. Gangs of gnats linger around the boat just waiting for the right time to attack. The lack of space has left my kids room looking like a hurricane hit the lake and lack of storage has forced me to turn my extra shower into a closet. When you are searching for first aid supplies, extra blankets and colored pencils in your shower you know the honeymoon phase has come to an end.
As I navigate these phases of life I’ve learned a few things. First, it’s vital I enjoy the honeymoon phase, while it lasts. I realize there may come a time when our unity is threatened, finances are scary and things feel like they are falling apart. I will pray that God prepares my heart for those moments, but until that time comes I will praise him for the victories we are experiencing each day. Secondly, I will remember that our decision to radically follow Jesus is a daily decision. We read in Matthew 16:24 that we are to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Jesus. I will deny my desires for more space and more stuff. I will take up my cross – even if that means dealing with unwanted insects and rough waters. I will follow Jesus no matter the cost. And last, but not least, I will embrace this crazy life because the honeymoon phase may come to an end, but with Jesus, the adventure never will.