The Ring

A while ago I went on a training run with my wife to get ready for my first 5k race in over a year. It felt great to get back out on the road, and the run was pretty uneventful.

Later that night, we headed to a friend's house, and when I looked down, panic set in. My wedding ring was missing from my hand. I checked my pockets; nothing. I quietly walked outside to retrace my steps, and still nothing. When was the last time I'd had it? How could I lose the one thing that symbolized this important commitment in my life?

During our training run the weather had been cool, my hands sweaty. Somewhere, during the four miles of sidewalks, intersections and city streets, my wedding ring had slipped off.

The next morning, we walked our running route. I scanned everything, hoping I would find the ring laying in the grass waiting for me. We made it back to within a block from our house, and still no ring. As we walked toward the house, I made a connection. Even though I'd lost my ring, I could never lose God's commitment to me. No matter how hard I tried, no matter how far I ran, and through all the sweat and challenges of life. Even in moments of sin, God is always waiting for me with His grace and love. Stronger than gold, more resilient than platinum, He stays forever.

I ordered a new ring. And while it isn't the ring we had on our wedding day, it still reminds me of my commitment to my wife. It also reminds me of God's commitment to me. His commitment for eternity.