A Life Well-Lived: Bob and Marie Southard
Bob and Marie Southard celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows. It was an event Ill never forget.
After the ceremony guests were invited to say a few words about the couple. Some mentioned how they had faithfully served the Lord for many years. Others talked about their love and devotion for one another. But among all the tributes, people thanked Bob and Marie for mentoring them in building better marriages. People laughed, people cried, and the Lord was honored by two lives so well lived.
Bob and Marie have built their lives around their relationship with Jesus Christ and those closest to them. They have invested their time, talents, and treasure in teaching others what God has taught them. Together they share a common purpose born out of the scars of their own marriage. They teach young couples how to love one another unconditionally and experience marital fulfillment.
Bob admits he spent the first 30 years of marriage focusing on his own needs. “No one should waste so many years, he warned. I’d give anything to have those years back again.” In the intervening years Bob has learned to love Marie unselfishly and unconditionally. As a result, the couple is experiencing greater intimacy.
Only two things will last through eternity the Word of God and people. Those who live lives well lived obey God’s Word by investing themselves in serving others. What about you?
Dr. Steve Lake is a retired educator with over 30 years experience in the American public schools. He has served in a variety of position, including teacher, elementary school principal, junior high principal, Associate Superintendent, retired from public education as Superintendent of Schools in Lincolnwood, IL. He has his Bachelors, Masters and Doctor of Education degrees from Northern Illinois University. For the past 25 years Steve has attended and been a member of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington and Northfield, IL. At Willow Creek Steve has taught adult classes on spiritual gifts, life purpose, and spiritual disciplines. He has ministered overseas in Angola, Zambia, Honduras, Germany, and Russia. Steve is co-founder of Designed to Serve, a ministry that equips Christians to live out their unique God-given calling. Steve is married and has two adult children who are married.
