Nineteen years ago today I married Jeff Mooney….a very different man than Dr. Jeff Mooney, who so many study under, learn from, laugh with, and follow as a Shephard.
The Jeff Mooney I married was just a kid really, just like me. He and I had so little plans for the future, we just knew we wanted to face the future together. The Jeff of 19 years ago made me laugh, made me feel loved, and made me feel secure. Those things have not changed; they have only been strengthened by the crucible of marriage. They have been tried and verified by both the fun of some great times (the birth of our kids, the numerous trips away, silly jokes, adventures galore, etc.) and by the tears of some serious trials (no money, ten years of post graduate studies, fears of parenting, fears of moving, etc.).
As I looked at my sweetheart 19 years ago, I had no idea what he would be like in 19 years and what we would do over the next 19 years. Really, I don’t think I could have imagined it: Ten moves, FOUR kids (one born at 38 and 40), a Ph.D, a move to the foreign land of CA, etc. etc. But I am so happy to have spent these 19 years with him.
I told our young marrieds class on Sunday, I would not be who I am today if God had not used this man to encourage me, critize me with love, love me knowing my faults and sin, and push me to be what God calls me to be. Jeff has encouraged me to use the gifts God has given me for Kingdom work, investing in our children and in other women. I am so blessed to have him as my life partner, encourager, friend, and lover.
Looking forward to the next 19 years as Mrs. Jeffrey Mooney!
Happy 19th, Jeff!
