BST's Blog

Seven years ago tonight, friends from all over the country were coming into Nashville for our wedding. Sheryl and I were filled with nervous anticipation. The fellowship hall had been transformed into a Caribbean tropical paradise and the steel drum player was warming up. Our friends and family were putting on clothes and getting ready to drive over from the hotel. It was really happening. It's one of those surreal moments. You've wondered all your life who you'd end up marrying, or if you would ever marry. Could it possibly be happening? Really? After the rehearsal, the dinner and an interesting night out with the boys at Buffalo Billiards where I was tattooed with a black Sharpie, I knew it was truly happening.

Then, the big day hit. Mike Cope was up front with me prepared to bless our union. Stephen Bailey stood next to me as my best man and at one point reached over to hold me up. A choir of about 20 or so from all over the country sang the most beautiful music I've ever heard directed by Jeff Nelson and Wendy Wray Ogren. John Catchings was melodic and perfect on the cello. Kirk Nofsinger sang and played the guitar and it was heavenly. Then the wedding party began to enter. Nika Maples, Kyle Dickson, Paula Agnew, Shane Holland, Kellie Ingram, Craig Fisher, Phillis Osborn, Josh Morse, Emily Trice, Jeff Gregg, Kim Girdley, Ryan Williamson...then Gail (Sheryl's sister) walked down. As she reached the front, The chorus hit the key change on Shine On Us and Sheryl entered with her father. This is where Stephen had to hold me up. Sheryl was exquisite. Unmatched in beauty. I was a raving mess. I had what is referred to as the "ugly cry" going on. Unbelievable.

Mike, full of humor and heart wrenching stories, preached the perfect wedding ceremony. We left as the band struck up Shout to the Lord and the choir sang with all their hearts. WHAT A DAY!!

The reception was at Woodmont Hills. It was nice and open and non-claustrophobic (my requirement!). 7 years ago this weekend we walked out of the reception as people blew bubbles in the air. We walked out to start our new life together.

One month ago this weekend I preached Jason's wedding, we went to Woodmont Hills for the reception, and we stood outside and blew bubbles as they ran out to begin their new life together. There was one MAJOR difference. The Thomas two had not only become one, they had become FIVE! It was a surreal moment. We stood there remembering our special day, holding our 3 children and praising God for all He's done.

The last seven years have been filled with laughter, love, births, deaths, pain, victory and seeking. I feel like the most blessed man in the world. Praise Your name, O Lord, for making Sheryl Rathbun. Thank you for watching over her, protecting her, guiding her, teaching her to be passionate for you, giving her the most beautiful voice I've ever heard, and leading her to me.

August 15th--what a day!! Happy Anniversary, honey!