Courtship, Marriage, and Yet…Strangers by Paula Rose Michelson


In 1 Corinthians 13: 12 Rabbi Shaul (the Apostle Paul) wrote: For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. As I read today’s posting, I wished that Naomi, and others who do not yet know Messiah could experience the comfort these few well chosen words would bring. Then I remembered that everything is in God’s hands, and the one who created the universe and holds it together by the power of his word is able to do all things, and in the perfect time. So if you, dear friend, are facing obstacles take heart for he cares for you.


Segments from the Text


                Naomi could not stop herself from wishing for a fuller life, a life where she would receive those things that she knew would complete her. She looked at Chaz and sensed a yearning within her that prior to their encounter she had never felt before. She wondered if the metamorphosis she witnessed outside her French doors each spring, when caterpillars spun their cocoons and emerged later in the season as beautiful butterflies, could be hers. Though she yearned to find out and become all Madre Vida had spoken of on her first night at the casa, she forced herself to asses this situation from a practical viewpoint. Her heart would have none of it, and against her better judgment, she found herself wondering, Could I become all God created me to be? Aware that her life was one of service to others, she upbraided herself, Be happy with what you have.
               
               
                Even as she agreed to his seemingly innocent request, she thought, Will I still be able to accomplish all I have committed to do if I give my heart to him?“ Good. I will court you so you can decide if I am worthy of your hand in marriage.” Naomi gave him a tentative smile. “There now, that was not so hard, was it?” Chaz took her hand and led her out of the attorney’s office.

               
                It was no surprise to anyone, least of all the attorney, when he opened the paper and found their wedding announcement in its pages. Overjoyed to have accomplished his desire and pleased that he had found the woman a worthy husband, Ralph waited until he knew the priest was free, hurried to the church, found Padre Paul, opened the paper and read, “Naomi Blanco is to marry Chaz Romero—” “Yes, it is true.” The padre wiped happy tears from his eyes. “I know because I am officiating at their nuptials.”


                Naomi’s wedding day was the best and the worst day of her life. When her voice trembled with emotion while she pledged herself to Chaz, she feared the very edifice they stood in would crash down upon her. She felt herself a fraud. How, she asked herself, can I pledge to love, honor, and obey without telling him about myself? Yet, she stifled her worries and exchanged vows and rings. Then she lifted her veil to reveal herself to him, knowing all the while that he did not know her at all. Chaz looked at her and smiled. She smiled back. As she did, she hoped that the joy that infused the moment with the bright light of promise would become a reality.


                Chaz realized he did not know where to spend the night. He found himself feeling as if he were a guest in the casa. He picked up his suitcase, which contained all he had chosen to bring to Naomi’s house at this time, and walked to the door she had closed. He was not happy that he had purposefully not told Naomi everything about himself. But early in their courtship, he had realized that if she understood his work and his world, she might deny him her hand in marriage. And that he would not allow.



Reflective Questions

What does Naomi fear?


What do you fear?


What does Chaz fear?


What will turn their fears and yours into blessings?



Until we meet again remember…


Psalm 111: 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom

Proverbs 1: 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge


Buy your copy of Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing, Book One at www.Amazon.com, www.Barnes&Noble.com

Audio book available at www.iTunes.com

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