40-Day Challenge: Dreaming (Day 6)

Begin with the Prayer of Abandonment.

“Whatsoever things are true . . . honest . . . just . . . pure . . . lovely . . . of good report. If there be any virtue or praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

Eighteen is going to be a magical year for my kids. They both talk regularly about what they hope to do when they reach the gateway to adulthood. Some of their dreams have a sense of urgency — reconnecting with birth family, for example. Others are simple declarations of independence: Sarah is counting the days until she will be old enough and has saved enough to have her own T.V. in her room.

Dreaming about the future can be a good thing for you and your spouse as well. When was the last time you talked with your husband about your dreams for the future? Do you make goals for five, ten, or even twenty years from now — and take little steps towards those long-term goals? Especially during times of stress and crisis, talking about your future plans can be a powerful way to affirm that the two of you are partners not just for now, but for life.

There is no denying that these plans may change, in whole or in part. Finances, health, and the needs of children may cause you to revise your original plans. But between the dreaming and the coming true is a lifetime of sharing and planning that will do you both a world of good. After all, marriage is not just about the destination — it’s about the journey!

Today’s challenge:  Ask your husband tonight over dinner about his dreams for the future. Or plan a trip for the two of you to take when your children are grown . . . Start a “trip fund” jar and squirrel away some spare change every day.

Today’s prayer:  Lord, you said to the Prophet Jeremiah, “I know the plans I have for you … plans to prosper and not to harm, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). We want to do your will, and to embrace your plan for our lives. Help us to see what that entails, so that we can look forward to our future with hope, too.”