On this day, 38 years ago, our second biggest dream came true: Ester and I became one. It was an act of faith followed by love. This physical partnership symbolised the spiritual partnership we had formed with the Lord Jesus Christ many years before, when, by faith, we dedicated our lives to Him.

I can remember very well the feeling inside. She typified the Church of the Lord. We had absolute assurance that our mutual loyalty reflected our loyalty to God. If we were not able to have faith and love for someone visible, how could we have faith and love for the One who was invisible?

Our relationship was going full steam ahead. But Cris’ arrival interrupted our honeymoon. I was put aside. Her charm and beauty took my place. And so, the period of adapting began. It was not easy. But with Vivi’s arrival, which was marked by pain and humiliation, our union was sealed. We learned how to depend on each other even more, exactly the way it happens in a relationship with God. Tribulations are good if we practise our faith and love, because they bring us closer to Him. That’s why Paul says, “we also glory in tribulations” (Romans 5:3).

Today after so many battles, humiliations, tears and pain, we can testify to those around us: we haven’t finished the race yet, but we have truly fought the good fight and kept our faith.

Up until this day, the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel has helped us.

May those who believe be blessed!