I watched The Notebook for the umpteenth time last night and, yes, I have read the book. This is definitely one of my favorite love stories of all times. Two others come to mind: Ghost and The World in His Arms. But, The Notebook has taken on a new meaning for me. One I would not have been looking for---it found me.
I always smile when Noah and Allie quarrel during their early years. How many young couples start out like that? Each trying to be "always right." It is heart warming to know that their love and passion for one another bring them back to what is important: each other.
But, the surprising thing I received from watching this love story this time came this morning while I was reading scripture and praying. Noah's face came before me as it is in the scene where he has been reading to Allie and he takes her inside to have a candle-light dinner. He has been so good to her, loving her, devoting his time and energy to her, and she responds by pushing him away and refusing his attentions. But, his face--the pain expressed in his eyes and demeanor gave me a glimpse of what the Lord must feel each time we brush Him aside--each time we act as if we do not know Him--the one who gave us life. He, too, never stops trying to remind us of His love for us. He, too, has promised to be with us until the very end. Truly, we will cross over with Him.
Strange how things evolve. I will never view The Notebook in quite the same way. It has taken on a whole new meaning for me. The love I am looking for and the needs of my heart have been more than met by the love of Christ. Will I still desire the love of a mortal man? Probably. Will I be pricked with pain as I wonder why not me. Probably. Today, however, I am basking in the love of my heavenly Father, and I thank Him for allowing me that glimpse into the dimensions of His love and desire for His children, and I am thankful that I am counted in that number.
