The Perfect Partner (03/10/2026)

I was told long ago in chemistry class that life goes better when we pick the perfect partner. I didn’t do so well in chemistry class, my lab partner was lost most of the time. But when it came to a husband, I was blessed. Today is his birthday, so my thoughts are very focused on him and what he’s brought to me, our family, and the world.

He’s been the perfect partner for so many reasons. It’s not just because he is a foot taller than I am and can reach everything in the world that I can’t. And it’s not that he’s the picture of calm when I am in panic mode. Some might think I feel this way because he can fix anything and I am known for breaking even the unbreakable, as my dad put it, “you could mess up a one can milk route.” Those are all good reasons but not “the” reason. He’s the perfect partner because he has the ability to love well even when it isn’t easy and even those who are not acting loveable in the moment.

This morning, as I was giving the LORD thanks for the gift of Kenneth in my life and for his presence in our family and world, I remembered the movie “As Good as It Gets” and Jack Nicholson’s response to Helen Hunt’s demand for a compliment. “You make me want to be a better man.” My husband, Kenneth, makes those around him want to be their best.

And I realized all over again through Kenneth’s example and loving presence what the LORD is calling me to be and to do, to live Him out loud every day in such a way that it calls others to Him and to wanting to walk in His footsteps and to be the best that we can for love of Him and love of one another. Truly, the perfect partner for all of us on The Way is Christ. He does not disappoint.

As we continue our Lenten journeys in faith, buoyed by hope and fueled by love, let us seek to walk the walk He calls us to, to pick up our own crosses and then follow in His footsteps knowing He will never lead us astray, knowing that His desire is that we have life and have it in abundance, and knowing that He is with us always. That’s clearly the supreme perfect partner.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.