Husband

As I was tending to my pond de-icer the other day, I began to think about all that goes into taking care of my pond and the surrounding garden in my back yard. Nearby are several bird feeders, which feed dozens (or maybe hundreds) of finches, wrens, cardinals, sparrows, mourning doves, and several other species. Those bird feeders also inadvertently feed squirrels who may raid the feeders if I am not careful, or who may simply graze on the dropped seeds of the aforementioned birds.

My pond is home to a fish of some standing (he/she is over 10 years old) and it dominates the pond. But that fish must share the pond with up to five frogs each year, as well as snails, and the occasional garter snake or three. Of course, there is a variety of plant life in the pond also, so we have a little biosystem there in the back yard.

All this to say that the word “husband” came to mind. Husband is a word used for someone who takes care of the land. Husband is also the name I carry as the husband of my wife, Deb. I have been her husband for over 50 years now, and the term husband is one that I like.

Webster defines husband as “a married man considered in relation to his wife”. The other meaning is more general. That one says “one who uses resources wisely, economically”. Similar words used to describe husband are: conserve, preserve, save, safeguard, etc.”

I love the idea of being one who safeguards and protects those things entrusted to him. I am merely the steward of those things I have around me, and I am blessed by them. Of course, I am especially blessed to be the husband of my wife, Deb. What an honor to be given the name husband.

So, husbands, love your wives, and take care of all that is entrusted to you. It is a privilege.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the opportunity to be a husband, Amen